http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11681_5955864,00.html
Hodgson wants play-off facts
Cottagers boss unsure on Champions League decider
By James Riach Last updated: 17th February 2010
Fulham manager Roy Hodgson wants all the facts about a possible play-off for a European place spelled out.
The Cottagers boss was quizzed on the mooted idea to hold play-off fixtures to contest the final place in the UEFA Champions League.
With Fulham having finished seventh in the Premier League last season and currently occupying 10th place, any introduction of such a play-off would impact on the men from West London.
Under the proposed plans, the teams that finish fourth to seventh in the table would compete in two semi-finals and a final to earn the right to play in Europe's elite tournament.
The idea has sparked debate with certain managers opposing and approving the proposal, but Hodgson wants to wait until he knows all the details.
"I think it would be a good idea if all of the facts and all of the advantages and disadvantages were very carefully thought out and spelt out for people and then a group of people can look into it and make a wise decision," he said.
"When the matter has been really truly thought out by everybody then maybe it will be the time for people like myself to come out with opinions.
"A wise decision needs to be made after all the advantages and disadvantages have been analysed.
Divided opinions
"At the moment you'll get people who have something to benefit from it say it's a good idea, while those who don't will say the opposite.
"These important matters shouldn't be decided by people like myself who might think that selfishly this is a good idea."
Fulham's current European adventure continues when they take on Ukrainian outfit Shakhtar Donetsk in the Europa League on Thursday.
Hodgson is delighted with the effort his players have put in so far this season and he says their current position in the league allows them to look forward to their games against sides on the continent.
"I'm pleased we're on 34 points and within touching distance of the safety zone because it means we're less anxious about the games that precede or follow European matches," he added.
"Everyone realises our players have done an exceptional job and have punched above their weight for a period of time and continue to do so.
"We've reached a level but sometimes it's easier to reach it than stay there.
"We've set a high standard for ourselves and now we must make sure we don't fall below that."
http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2010/02/17/qi-fulham-players-in-europe/
QI: Fulham players in Europe
Filed under: General — weltmeisterclaude @ 9:46 pm
While we get excited about the game tomorrow, here's an interesting thing. Total UEFA games played by our squad members:
No. Name P Gls
19 Pascal Zuberbühler 90 0
13 Danny Murphy 55 7
18 Aaron Hughes 52 2
16 Damien Duff 45 4
5 Brede Hangeland 44 2
1 Mark Schwarzer 29 0
11 Zoltán Gera 21 4
10 Erik Nevland 20 4
4 John Pantsil 19 1
17 Bjørn Helge Riise 15 1
27 Jonathan Greening 10 0
25 Bobby Zamora 10 4
3 Paul Konchesky 8 0
6 Christopher Baird 8 0
2 Stephen Kelly 7 0
23 Clint Dempsey 7 1
20 Dickson Etuhu 5 1
29 Simon Davies 5 0
35 David Elm 5 0
26 Christopher Smalling 4 0
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1251776/Fulham-owner-Mohamed-Al-Fayed-bans-tracksuited-Shakhtar-Donetsk-players-Harrods-store.html?ITO=1490
Fulham owner Mohamed Al Fayed bans tracksuited Shakhtar Donetsk players from his Harrods store
By Laura Williamson
Last updated at 9:38 PM on 17th February 2010
Shakhtar Donetsk will be out for revenge tonight after the team were turned away from London department store Harrods, which is owned by Fulham chairman Mohamed Al Fayed.
The Ukrainian side visited the shop in Knightsbridge on Monday but were told they were not allowed to enter because their group was 'too big and suspicious'.
Shakhtar, who won the UEFA Cup last year, meet Fulham in the last 32 of the Europa League at Craven Cottage tonight.
A statement on Shakhtar's official website said: 'The players decided to increase the earnings of one of London's reputable shops, Harrods. The footballers have money and were eager to buy a lot, but weren't allowed to enter the shop.
'All of them were wearing similar tracksuits. The players explained this was the football team and they had no habit of taking tuxedos to the training camp to go shopping.
'But the explanations were fruitless.' The players continued their shopping trip in another store, 'where the owner was very glad'.
A Harrods spokesman said the shop did not wish to 'offend or upset visitors', but the 'difficult decision' had been taken 'in the interest of health and safety'.
Fulham manager Roy Hodgson said: 'I'm surprised to hear it. The chairman normally loves people to spend their money with him!'
Shakhtar have not played competitively since December 16 owing to a midwinter break. That did not stop them beating Tottenham 3-1 on aggregate at the same stage last year.
Shakhtar right back Darijo Srna, the Croatia captain, has been linked with Tottenham and Chelsea.
http://hammyend.com/?p=5385
Up next: Shakhtar Donetsk (h)
by Dan on February 17, 2010
With no serious football to concentrate on in the past month or so, Shakhtar Donetsk have been keeping their fans entertained with a few funny stories on their website. Tucked in alongisde Andriy Voronin's insistence that Fulham like to whack the ball long (he can't have paid much attention during Liverpool's defeat at the Cottage earlier in the season then), was a tale of how the squad were refused entry to Harrods. The Ukrainians arrived in London with little fear of a Fulham side, about whom the general consensus is that they've done well just to get out of the group stage, but Roy Hodgson's boys have run into a little bit of form of late.
You'd probably still have to make the visitors favourites to progress but it's not the walkover it might have looked like during Fulham's dismal run in January. Shakhtar are no longer an unknown quantity having become the last winners of the UEFA Cup in a quiet run to glory last season and they are breathing right down the necks of Dynamo Kiev back home too. They sit in second place, just one point behind the leaders, having only lost a single league game all season.
Hodgson's side will have their work cut out to stifle Shakhtar's South American flair too. Even if most of Shakhtar's squad are Ukrainian, there is a hefty sprinking of Brazilians in the line-up. The likes of Dickson Etuhu and Danny Murphy will have to quickly get to grips with Fernandinho, Jadson and Ilsinho. Up front, nobody will need to be reminded of the potency of Luiz Adriano, Shakhtar's top scorer with nine goals in 14 league games, and another five to add to the total from the Europa League.
Perhaps Fulham's best chance of springing a surprise comes with the fact that Shakhtar haven't played a competitive game since the middle of December and that was their defeat by Partizan Belgrade in the Europa League. You have to go back to December 12 for Donetsk's last league outing and, although the squad have been playing some warm-weather friendlies in Spain in preparation for this game, they won't come close to the hustle and bustle of playing an English side on a cold February night by the Thames.
Roy Hodgson has already signalled that Fulham's improved league performances – perhaps best encapsulated by the clinical dispatching of Burnley last week – make him a little more relaxed about fielding a strong side in Europe, especially as they move closer to Premier League safety. You do get the sense that Fulham will need to build a lead for the away leg so a strong performance at the Cottage tomorrow night is essential.
The manager has a few selection worries to ponder over before picking his team. Paul Konchesky has returned to light training after his foot injury at Motspur Park but won't be rushed back into action tomorrow night. With Nicky Shorey ineligible, Hodgson is most likely to press Stephen Kelly into service at left back as he has done before in the Europa League this season. The Irish international hasn't been in great form of late, but the memory of his lungbursting run to the Basel byline before he pulled the ball back for Zoltan Gera to score the crucial third before Christmas shows what he can do in an unfamilar role.
Chris Baird should continue at right back – having been impressive there of late – and that should allow Etuhu and Murphy to continue their solid understanding at the heart of the Fulham midfield. Simon Davies scored on Sunday and will have staked a strong place to line-up with Damien Duff on the flanks, although Jonathan Greening has also been in good form out wide and Zoltan Gera, impressive before his untimely knee injury, will be available for selection again. With Stefano Okaka unavailable, the promising partnership of David Elm and Bobby Zamora is likely to test the aerial ability of the Shakhtar defence. It should be a cracker down at the Cottage.
MY FULHAM XI (4-4-2): Schwarzer; Baird, Kelly, Hughes, Hangeland; Etuhu, Murphy, Duff, Davies; Elm, Zamora. Subs: Zuberbuhler, Stoor, Smalling, Greening, Riise, Gera, Nevland.
http://hammyend.com/?p=5383
Hodgson hints at Euro glory
by Dan on February 17, 2010
Roy Hodgson reckons Fulham's safe league position should allow his side to have a real go at taking on the defending champions Shakhtar Donetsk in the Europa League tomorrow night.
Hodgson had been treating Fulham's European adventure with caution, rotating his small squad and prioritising the league in previous weeks, but with his team now safely in mid-table and inching closer to survival on 34 points, he has hinted at being a bit more adventurous in Europe. After a 3-0 win over Burnley in midweek and, with the club's injury crisis finally showing signs of clearing up, Hodgson's focus is firmly on trying to establish a lead ahead of a tough second leg.
We thought it was fantastic to be part of this competition. It's a great adventure and is a feather in this club's cap. It's a good marketing tool to get our name and what we're trying to do out to a much wider audience via a top-level competition.
We've taken all the games seriously but in the earlier stages when I had a bigger squad I changed things around and used the freshest legs. I'm pleased we're on 34 points and within touching distance of the safety zone because it means we're less anxious about the games that precede or follow European matches.
http://hammyend.com/?p=5381
Konchesky still missing
by Dan on February 17, 2010
Paul Konchesky has been ruled out of Fulham's Europa League clash with Shakhtar Donetsk tomorrow night, leaving Roy Hodgson with a bit of a headache over who to play at left back.
Konchesky has resumed light training after suffering a foot injury but the first leg of this last-32 tie looks to have come a little too soon for the former West Ham full back. With Nicky Shorey also unavailable having played in an earlier round of the competition for Aston Villa, Hodgson might have to deploy the out-of-form Stephen Kelly at left back as he has done on previous European nights.
Zoltan Gera is expected to be available for selection having missed the last couple of games with a knee injury but long-term absentees Kagisho Dikgacoi (ankle), Andrew Johnson, Clint Dempsey and John Pantsil are all still missing.
http://hammyend.com/?p=5378
Elm eager for new deal
by Dan on February 17, 2010
David Elm's agent says his client wants to stay at Fulham – and suggests that there are indications that the Craven Cottage club want to keep the Swedish striker.
Elm has been particularly impressive of late since making his league debut for the Whites and scored his first goal for the club in the recent 3-0 defeat of Burnley. The towering striker's agent, Patrick Mork, is confident that he will remain at Fulham despite his one-year deal expiring in the summer.
Nothing about a new deal has happened as yet, but we have got indications off Fulham that they want keep David. They have shown positive indications about taking up a two-year option in his contract and I would be surprised if they didn't.
David would be delighted to sign a longer contract at Fulham as he is enjoying himself there. They have until March 31st to take up the option and if they don't I am sure there will be other clubs who will be interested in David.
He is getting more confident now he is playing regularly and he is happy playing under Roy Hodgson.
http://www.rs.goal.com/en/news/166/europa-league/2010/02/17/1795374/europa-league-preview-fulham-shaktar-donetsk
Europa League Preview: Fulham - Shaktar Donetsk
Cottagers welcome cup holders to west London...
By James Daly
Feb 17, 2010 6:32:00 PM
Kick-off: Thursday February 18, 2010. 20:05 GMT
Craven Cottage, London
Shaktar Donetsk hold a special title - the last winners of the UEFA Cup. Of course, the competition is now called the Europa League, but as holders the Ukrainian outfit will be keen to defend their title in Hamburg come May.
But they come up against a spirited Fulham side in the second round, who have been galvanised under Roy Hodgson.
However, that excellent form from the beginning of season which saw the Cottages turn over Manchester United 3-0, evaporated at the beginning of 2010 with the team having to wait until February for a league win.
But with four clean sheets in the last four games, and plenty of goals, confidence will be high in the west London camp.
Shaktar remain an unknown outfit, buried away in Eastern Europe, but are currently second in the Ukrainian Premier League, just a point off leaders Dinamo Kiev and have only lost once all season.
But Shaktar are out of practice, having not played since December on account of the league's massive mid-season break. A large number of the Shakhtar squad are home-based players, although there is a considerable Brazilian influence in midfield with Fernandinho, Jadson and Ilsinho all regulars.
Top top scorer is Luiz Adriano who has nine goals in 14 League appearances as well as five in European competition.
Anyone in Fulham expecting an easy ride against one of Europe's less-fashionable clubs will be in for a rude awakening.
FORM
Fulham
Jan 30: Fulham 0-2 Aston Villa
Feb 02: Fulham 1-0 Portsmouth
Feb 06: Bolton 0-0 Fulham
Feb 09: Fulham 3-0 Burnley
Feb 14: Fulham 4-0 Notts Co (FA Cup)
Shaktar
Dec 16: FK Partizan 1-0 Shakhta (Europa League)
Dec 12: Shakhtar 2-1 Illychivets
Dec 9: Shakhtar 2-0 Metalurh Z
Dec 6: Kryvbas 0-2 Shakhtar
Dec 3: Shakhtar 0-0 Brugge (Europa League)
TEAM NEWS
Fulham
Roy Hodgson is still without Clint Dempsey who has a knee ligament injury while Andrew Johnson (knee) and John Pantsil (cruciate ligament) are both unavailable.
Hodgson had hoped to have left-back Paul Konchesky available, but the defender failed a late test on his ankle. However, Zoltan Gera is back from his knee injury. On loan Aston Villa defender Nick Shorey and Roma loanee Stefano Okaka are both unavailable as they are cup-tied.
Shaktar
The Ukraine outfit have inspirational midfielder Razvan Rat available, but he would miss the second leg if he is booked at Craven Cottage. Brazilian striker Luiz Adriano poses the biggest threat to Fulham, who should have an advantage in terms of match fitness.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Fulham - Damien Duff
The Irish winger has found a new lease of life under Roy Hodgson after disappointing spells at Chelsea and Newcastle.
And the Fulham boss will need Duff at his best as he tries to cope without Andy Johnson and Stefano Okaka.
Playing behind Bobby Zamora, Duff could be the key to unlock a tough Shaktar defence.
Shaktar - Darijo Srna
The speedy right-back cum winger is Shaktar captain and their best player. It's somewhat surprising the 27-year-old is still at the club having been heavily linked with a move to Italy and Spain for some time.
But Fulham should watch out for his marauding runs down the right flank and dangerous crossing, which if it isn't blocked out, could be the home side's undoing.
PREDICTION
Despites having a relatively low profile outside their native Ukraine, Shaktar are a tidy outfit.
They perform better at home, but should not be underestimated by an inconsistent Fulham team.
However, with the Craven Cottage crowd behind Hodgson's team, their best bet at a result is Thursday night.
Fulham 2-1 Shaktar
http://cottagers.blogspot.com/2010/02/fulham-3-0-burnley.html
Wednesday, 17 February 2010
Fulham 3 - 0 Burnley
This was one of those strange old games which didn't really feel like a competition. Burnley were adventurous and dangerous enough going forward, but their defence away from home is pitiful. Fulham scored three without it feeling like they were actually trying; the forward line was like a hot knife through butter.
Burnley's keeper Brian 'the beast' Jensen made a handful of excellent saves, but was pretty culpable for the second and third goals. And once again Fulham enjoyed a few strokes of luck with the first two goals emerging from offside positions, not that these offside positions provided much of an advantage but the letter of the law states both Elm and Zamora were beyond the last man when they set up the strikes. But the goals would have come sooner or later anyway.
It was a welcome starting 11 return for Dickson Etuhu, but everytime I noticed him in the first half it was for doing something wrong. Fortunately he was far more influential in the second half. His presence seemed to give Murphy more confidence to go forward and he was involved in Burnley's penalty area three or four times, including for the opening goal. A good sign. Jonathan Greening even got a belt of a new song about him dying for our sins. Shame he's shaved the beard off now so it doesn't really make sense.
I don't think I've mentioned Schwarzer much recently but that's only because he has set such a high standard and is maintaining it. He's probably player of the season at the moment, edging in front of Bobby Z, Duff and Hughes.
The Burnley fans, like the Pompey fans, were noisy despite what was happening on the pitch. Well actually they only became really noisy after the third went it. A case of if we're here we may as well enjoy ourselves. They played nice football again, so it would be a shame if they don't stay ahead of some of the division's more cynical teams in the relegation battle.
Looking ahead to Shaktar tomorrow night February has so far seen Fulham yet to concede a goal and seven different players contributing to the eight goals scored this month. These are positive portents ahead of what may end up being a very tricky or a surprisingly smooth tie. It depends on how match fit Shaktar are and how much interest Roy Hodgson has in progressing.
Attendance: Just Andy with five empty seats either side
Posted by Bad Andy at 19:43
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2010/feb/17/shakhtar-donetsk-fayed-harrods-fulham
Fulham's Europa League opponents are barred entry to Harrods• Ukrainian squad turned away in their tracksuits
• Roy Hodgson concedes Fulham are underdogs
Jamie Jackson guardian.co.uk,
Wednesday 17 February 2010 22.30
Fulham face Shakhtar Donetsk in the last 32 of the Europa League, with the Ukrainian team smarting after being refused entry yesterday to Harrods, which is owned by their opponents' chairman, Mohamed al Fayed. The incident is bound to cause him embarrassment.
Shakhtar, who won last year's competition when it was still the Uefa Cup, have made public their disappointment at being denied access to the Knightsbridge store. A statement on the club's website read: "The players decided to increase the earnings of one of London's reputable shops – Harrods. The footballers, who have money and are eager to buy a lot, were certain to leave [a] big sum.
"You may be surprised but the Miners [Shakhtar's nickname] weren't allowed to enter the shop.
"The staff said that the group of customers was too big and suspicious. All of them were wearing similar tracksuits. The players explained this was the football team and were not in the habit of taking tuxedos to the training camp to go shopping. But those explanations were fruitless."
Roy Hodgson, the Fulham manager, was surprised to hear about the episode. He said: "I'm surprised to hear it, the chairman [Fayed] normally loves people to spend their money with him."
A Harrods spokesperson told the Guardian: "There are periods, when the store is at its busiest, that Harrods has to take the difficult decision to deny access to tour parties and larger groups of visitors. This is done in the interest of health and safety. Needless to say, we do not wish to offend or upset visitors when making these decisions."
On the field Hodgson concedes his team are underdogs against a Shakhtar side that play a technical, passing game influenced by the five Brazilians that should start tonight. "We're talking about a team that's competed in the Champions League for the last few seasons and has won the Uefa Cup," he acknowledged. "But Roma are second in the Italian league and Basel are a top European team, and we played very well against them [in the group stage]. So I have every confidence."
Probable line-ups
Fulham (4-4-2): Schwarzer; Baird, Hangeland, Hughes, Shorey; Davies, Etuhu, Murphy, Duff; Zamora, Elm.
Shakhtar Donetsk (4-5-1): Pyatov; Hyubschman, Kucher, Rakitsky, Rat; Srna, Fernandinho, Jadson, Willian, Ilsinho; Adriano.
http://football.fanhouse.co.uk/2010/02/17/fulham-v-shakhtar-donetsk-preview-roy-hodgson-is-back-on-track/
Fulham v Shakhtar Donetsk Preview: Roy Hodgson is Back on Track
17/2/2010 11:26 AM GMT By Ben Hunt
EUROPA LEAGUE, CRAVEN COTTAGE, THURSDAY FEBRUARY 18, 2010. KICK-OFF: 2000 GMT
FULHAM:
February is proving to be month to remember for Fulham. After a dreadful run during January, where they racked up five straight defeats in the Premier League, manager Roy Hodgson has his team pointing in the right direction again.
The Cottagers are undefeated this month as they prepare for this Europa League clash against heavyweights Shakhtar Donetsk.
Hodgson knows it will be difficult against the Ukrainian side, who won the Uefa Cup last season and, unlike in most previous rounds, he is expected to play his strongest team instead of relying on squad players.
Hodgson's assessment of their February revival is interesting. He said "The two full backs, Chris Baird and Nicky Shorey, have made a real difference to us. They have helped us in an area where we were not at our best in one or two of the games.
"It has also been a question of sticking to the things we wanted to do. I don't think there has been a vast difference in terms of how we have been playing between the two months.
"It is difficult to put your finger on it is, but it is nice to be on a winning run of games and that inspires confidence which helps you get from one game to the next.
"We have raised the bar as far as the club is concerned and we have to work very hard to make sure we don't fall below the standard we have set."
Strategy: Fulham will stick to what they know best and rely on Bobby Zamora to provide the power in attack. Fulham have been scoring freely of late and Jonathan Greening, Simon Davies and Damien Duff will look to follow up their goals against Notts County in the FA Cup.
Shakhtar Donetsk have not played any competitive football recently because of their league's midwinger break, so Fulham will be keen to start the game at a high tempo and keep it going in the closing stages when the Ukrainians may start to feel the effects of their lay-off.
Injury Update: Fulham are still without Clint Dempsey who has a knee ligament injury. Andrew Johnson and John Paintsil are both ruled out. Hodgson had hoped to have Paul Konchesky available, but the defender failed a late test on his ankle. However, Zoltan Gera is back from his knee injury. On loan Aston Villa defender Shorey is unavailable as he is cup-tied
SHAKHTAR DONETSK:
The Ukraine outfit have inspirational midfielder Razvan Rat available, but he would miss the second leg if he is booked at Craven Cottage. Brazilian striker Luiz Adriano poses the biggest threat to Fulham, who should have an advantage in terms of match fitness. The visitors, who have been training in London for the past week, have played only two friendlies since their midwinter break started two months ago. Fulham have played 14 games in the same period.
http://fulham.theoffside.com/team-news/mining-for-stuff-about-shaktar.html
Mining for stuff about Shaktar
By: timmyg | February 17th, 2010
It's a bit odd that I'm somewhat material-less in the run up to tomorrow's match against Shaktar Donetsk. I think I've become rather engulfed with the Olympics that footy has been moved to the back burner for a bit.
The match is marks the first time ever Fulham are playing in Europe in February. But how does it compare to that match against Liverpool in 2007, or Portsmouth in 2008, or even Basle just this past December?
In all honesty, I'd say it pales in comparison. If we lose, we won't be relegated or miss out on advancing due to some dodgy refereeing.
I'm not discounting the current UEFA title-holders by any stretch. Although they haven't played a league game since December 13, and Europa game since the 16th, they will be fresh after training in St. Albans for the past week or so. They even attended our cup tie against Notts County.
But we have the advantage of being in some good form, we just cannot concede a goal to Brazilian starlet Luiz Adriano.
On a side note, Andriy Voronin spoke to Shaktar Donetsk and gave some rather incorrect information:
– Andriy, who is considered to be the favourite in the pair Shakhtar v Fulham in your opinion?
– It's difficult to say, because the both teams have different styles of play. Shakhtar is more technical and Fulham builds the game on the physical training of their footballers. The teams are diverse, that's why it's not correct to compare. remembering matches against Fulham I can say that almost all their passes are long, they try to kick the ball as close to the rival's goal as possible. This way is simple but efficient and tried-and-true one.
I think it's fairly obvious Voronin hasn't seen Fulham play in nearly two years.
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/cups/uefacup/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/10/02/17/SOCCER_Shakhtar_Donetsk_Nightlead.html
LASTUVKA IMPRESSED BY FULHAM
By Duncan Bech, Press Association Sport
Jan Lastuvka has warned Shakhtar Donetsk to beware "spectacular" Fulham in Thursday night's Europa League clash at Craven Cottage.
Lastuvka left the Donbass Arena for a season-long loan move to south-west London in 2006, giving the Czech Under-21 goalkeeper an insight into both clubs.
He departed when a transfer fee could not be agreed following a mixed season at Fulham and later joined West Ham.
The 27-year-old rates striker Bobby Zamora very highly and believes Shakhtar may suffer as they are midway through their winter break.
"Fulham are playing spectacular football and they have got an experienced and very efficient forward in Bobby Zamora. Their defence is also strong," he said.
"But Shakhtar are a strong team that does particularly well in the European tournaments. They are not worse than Fulham.
"But there is an advantage for English clubs as they have been playing in their Premier League so far while Shakhtar have only been in training.
"Fulham are doing well in the Premier League right now, although Shakhtar should not fear anything.
"If Shakhtar play as well as they can, they will gain a positive result for sure."
The first leg is being held at Craven Cottage and Lastuvka, who now plays for Ukrainian club Dnipro, believes this offers Shakhtar an advantage.
"It's often said that it is better to play away first because of the advantage of getting a 1-1 draw," he said.
"And it will be easier to play at home. I believe it's good Shakhtar play their first leg away."
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/sport/football/premier_league/fulham/article7031083.ece
Shakhtar Donetsk players refused entry to Harrods
Neil Gardner
Fulham have been left embarrassed after players from Shakhtar Donetsk were refused entry to Harrods, the shop run by Mohamed Al Fayed, the club's owner.
The Ukrainian side, who are due to play Fulham in a Europa League last-32 match at Craven Cottage on Thursday, attempted to visit the Knightsbridge store after training in St Albans yesterday but were not allowed in because they were wearing club tracksuits.
"The staff said that the group of customers was too big and suspicious," a club statement said. "The players explained that this was the football team and they had no habit of taking tuxedos to the training camp to go shopping. But those explanations were fruitless.
"The players bought presents for their relatives in another shop. We only hope that after the match the Londoners will treat our team with respect."
Related Links
Hodgson continues magic touch in cups
FA Cup draw pairs Terry with Bridge
A spokesman for Harrods said in response: "There are periods, when the store is at its busiest, that Harrods has to take the difficult decision to deny access to tour parties and larger groups of visitors. This is done in the interest of health and safety.
"Needless to say, we do not wish to offend or upset visitors when making these decisions."
Others barred from entering Harrods
Jason Donovan The Australian soap star was turned away from Harrods in 1992 for wearing ripped jeans. If only he'd covered up with an amazing technicolour dreamcoat
Lieutenant Daniel Lenherr British troops were warned in 2006 that they were no longer welcome in Mohamed Al Fayed's aisles — at least not in uniform, which might "intimidate" others
Luke Goss The Eighties pop star, who sang When Will I Be Famous?, certainly wasn't well known by the Harrods doorman, who refused him entry
http://www.birminghampost.net/midlands-birmingham-sport/west-midlands-sports/birmingham-city-fc/2010/02/17/fulham-holds-painful-memories-for-birmingham-city-boss-alex-mcleish-65233-25853587/
Fulham holds painful memories for Birmingham City boss Alex McLeish
Feb 17 2010 Birmingham Post
Birmingham City return to the scene of arguably Alex McLeish's greatest disappointment on Sunday.
A visit to Fulham's Craven Cottage brings back painful memories for the Blues boss and his side.
Two years ago, on the penultimate day of the season, Blues faced Fulham in a winner-take-all encounter.
Blues were two points ahead of Fulham, in 18th place in the Premier League table.
The previous fixture, Blues had surrendered a two-goal lead at home to Liverpool and drawn, while Fulham had come from behind to win an amazing game at Manchester City, scoring three times in the final 20 minutes.
Coming to half-time, there was nothing to chose between the teams. Then Liam Ridgewell landed awkwardly and turned his ankle.
Ridgewell had been enjoying his best performance for weeks, too. Blues looked sturdy.
But a reshuffle had to be made and Franck Queudrue replaced him for the second-half at centre-back.
Seven minutes into the second period Brian McBride got loose at a free-kick and headed Fulham into the lead.
Blues strained for all their worth to get on level terms but couldn't break down the Cottagers.
With three minutes to go, their fate was sealed when Queudrue's suicidal back header to Maik Taylor was snaffled up by Erik Nevland.
The result effectively extinguished Blues chances of avoiding relegation. Although they beat Blackburn Rovers in their last match, Fulham won at Portsmouth.
Since that ignominious day, Fulham have gone from strength to strength, while McLeish and Blues had to regroup and negotiate the Championship.
It confirmed his belief that Blues needed more players who could take the ball and pass it; who had quality and a mental capacity to cope.
Undoubtedly, the way McLeish has reconstructed Blues since then, and the manner in which they have performed in the Premier League on their return, has been highly impressive.
Whereas in 2007-08 they seemingly found ways to lose or draw games from decent positions, or when there was not much in them, now they have that winning habit.
Fulham, who went on to qualify for Europe while Blues were slugging it out in the Championship, have shown the way ahead and what can be achieved.
Blues have recovered from the depressing end to that season and, by and large, reinvented themselves.
It should be much more of an even battle come 3pm on Sunday.
http://www.dailystar.co.uk/football/view/122716/Roy-Hodgson-money-talks-for-Shakhtar-Donetsk/
ROY HODGSON: MONEY TALKS FOR SHAKHTAR DONETSK
18th February 2010
By Paul Brown
ROY HODGSON claims money talks as his Premier League paupers take on the Ukrainian aristocracy tonight.
Shakhtar Donetsk come to Fulham bankrolled by investment billionaire Rinat Akhmetov.
He is one of the wealthiest men in Europe, sponsors Ukraine's president-elect, and is in a different league to Fulham and Harrods owner Mohamed Al Fayed.
And Hodgson claims that makes his side massive underdogs in their Europa League last-32 first-leg clash.
He said: "Money dominates football. The top teams all have one thing in common – very high budgets!
"Shakhtar actually come from that category. Their budget is the same as that of some of our leading Premier League sides.
"They sign good players, especially from Brazil. They can sign some of the best players around. We can't do that.
"You've got to put them on the same level as the best Spanish and English teams because their budget is on the same level. They have also competed in the Champions League and, in terms of European pedigree, they are ahead of us, so to some extent we're underdogs.
"But we did well in this compet-ition against Roma and Basel so I have every confidence, if we play well, we can get a result."
Fulham are unbeaten in 12 European ties at home this season and face a side who haven't played since December because they are on a winter break.
But Shakhtar won last season's UEFA Cup and have beaten Arsenal and Tottenham at home in recent years.
That makes a good result tonight crucial for Fulham before going to the Ukraine next Thursday.
Defender Aaron Hughes said: "We're up against a side capable of winning the competition.
"It will be important not to concede an away goal. We must keep a clean sheet first and foremost, and then try to nick one.
"They're on a winter break but that could work both ways.
"We have momentum from playing but they've had a break and will be ready to go."
Shakhtar arrived on Sunday and saw Fulham's 4-0 FA Cup win over Notts County.
http://www.tribalfootball.com/fulham-boss-hodgson-deploy-strongest-team-available-europa-league-649641
Fulham boss Hodgson to deploy strongest team available in Europa League
18.02.10 | Andrew Slevison
Fulham manager Roy Hodgson has said he will play his strongest team possible in Thursday night's Europa League clash with reigning UEFA Cup winners Shakhtar Donetsk.
Hodgson admits he currently does not have the luxury of squad rotation as the Cottagers' injury list is hefty and a few players are cup-tied meaning he will use whatever he has available even though they have a Premier League fixture against Birmingham on Sunday.
"It is not too difficult to balance the squads because we only have 18 senior players with Konchesky and now he is not available we will bring in a guy from the academy," he said.
"We will just try to put out the best team each time and hope for no further injuries and hope we can get by in all the games. It is a matter for thought all the time what you do between matches in the training sessions while making certain we don't take too much out of the players because the games are coming so thick and fast.
"But in terms of the selection of the team, it is not that difficult. We are at such advanced stages of the FA Cup and Europa League competitions it is basically a case of trying to get your best teams out all the time and hoping they can cope with the workload."
http://www.bettingpress.com/category/Football/Fulham-v-Shakhtar-Donetsk-201002180012/
Fulham v Shakhtar Donetsk
Betting Press Staff
18 Feb 2010
Roy Hodgson is certainly no stranger to European football and by the look of how Fulham have played in the Europa League this season, he's passed on his vast experience to his team to get them in with a great shout of success.
They won't find it easy against Shakhtar Donetsk on Thursday night, but with their recent good home form and also their rock solid defence they should feel confident of gaining an advantage for the second leg in Ukraine.
The Cottagers have gone four and a half matches without conceding, albeit against teams towards the bottom of the table, and have got a striker in Bobby Zamora (11/2 to score first, 6/4 to notch at anytime of the match) who seems to be reinvigorated this season.
The former West Ham player doesn't always get the credit he deserves and has had to come in for some flak from his own supporters this season, but his manager can't speak highly enough of him, especially given his run of eight goals in his last 13 games making it 13 for the season.
The Londoner almost single-handedly put Fulham into the knockout stage by scoring a brace in the final group game in Basle, and has stuck up a fine partnership with David Elm (13/2 first, 15/8 any) recently, the Swede hasn't managed to get that many goals but the link-up play the two have enjoyed in the last few games will give Cottagers fans reasons to be hopeful for the rest of the season.
If the likes of Damien Duff (10/1 first goal, 7/2 anytime) and Simon Davies (25/1 first, 8/1 any) can get plenty of balls into the front two then they could make the 6/4 on Fulham look like a snip, the draw wouldn't be a disaster for the Whites and that's an 11/5 shot while the visiting Ukrainians are 9/5 to gain a first leg advantage.
I think Fulham can do the business on Thursday night, but it will be a close game, a 1-0 win would probably be the most sensible scoreline and that's an 11/2 chance.
Of course Shakhtar will provide a really tough test, after all they are the defending champions (when it was named the UEFA Cup), the Miners are sat second in the Ukrainian league and look good for a qualification place for next year's Champions League.
However, they might be rusty as they haven't played a competitive game since losing to FK Partizan on 16 December.
If they aren't showing signs of rustiness and can get their passing game that was instrumental in their triumph in last season's competition going then it will make for a really good game.
They will be led by the excellent Dario Srna (16/1 first goal, 6/1 anytime) who is the architect of so many of Shakhtar's passing moves and is a dab hand from set pieces, and have some classy attacking options such as Brazilian trio Fernandinho (9/1 first, 10/3 any), Luiz Adriano (11/2 first, 6/4 any), who scored the opener in last season's UEFA Cup final and has nine goals in 14 League appearances as well as five in European competition, and Jadson (7/1 first, 2/1 any).
http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/index.php/sports/53517-gera-fit-and-ready-to-fire-for-fulham
Gera fit and ready to fire for Fulham
By Andy West
LONDON, Feb 18 —
Europa League specialist Zoltan Gera has declared himself fit and ready to aid Fulham's bid to knock out holders Shakhtar Donetsk tonight.
The classy winger, who scored his team's crucial third goal against Basle in December to secure their passage to the knockout stages after notching another winner in an earlier group stage game against CSKA Sofia, has missed the last fortnight of action with a knee injury.
But he returned to full training at the start of the week and said: "I'm feeling fit and feeling good. I'm ready to play if the manager needs me. I've worked hard to get myself back to fitness and everything's fine now, so I'm looking forward to the game."
However, the Hungarian ace is by no means taking his place in the Cottagers' starting line-up for granted, and is quick to praise the manner in which manager Roy Hodgson has developed his squad.
"We've got a big squad and we've needed it this season because we've had a lot of injuries. The manager made some great signings in the summer and we've had a really good season, even though the manager's had to keep changing the team on a regular basis.
"We're doing well in the Premier League and we're also still in the Europa League and the FA Cup, so we're very happy and looking forward to the rest of the season."
Thirty-year-old Gera is expecting a stiff test from Ukrainian side Shakhtar, the current Europa League holders. "They're obviously a very strong team, having won the competition last season, and it will be a difficult game for us.
"I know quite a lot about them and they've got some very good players, including some technically excellent Brazilians. I saw them play against Barcelona in the Super Cup a few months ago and although they lost 1-0 it was a very close game, which shows how strong they are.
"I would expect them to play safety-first at the start of the game and try to make sure they don't concede an early goal, but away goals are very important in this competition so they will probably try to attack us in the second half.
"The games against Shakhtar will probably be our hardest so far in the Europa League. Although we had tough games against Roma, who are a very good team, generally the Europa League games are easier to play than in the Premier League, where the tempo is faster and you have much less space to play."
Gera is pleased that his side will be able to rely on more excellent support from their fans, saying: "These are special games for our fans, who have been waiting for a long time to see Fulham in European competition. I'm sure they'll come again in big numbers on Thursday, and that's important because we'll need them against a tough team like Shakhtar."
Although Fulham are in the last eight of the FA Cup, where they will face Bolton or Tottenham, as well as the last 32 of the Europa League, Gera insists that he's not thinking about the possibility of lifting trophies, preferring instead to take the "one game at a time" approach.
"We just want to win every game, and our priority is always our next game — whoever it's against and whichever competition it's in. I'm not thinking about how far we can go in these cup competitions and whether we can win them — there are a lot of good teams in both competitions so let's just try to win every game and see how far it takes us."
Gera is confident that his side will be well prepared for their latest European encounter by their vastly experienced manager Hodgson, one of the best-travelled figures on the managerial circuit following earlier spells in Switzerland, Italy, Denmark, Sweden among other countries.
Gera has been impressed with what he's seen from Hodgson since joining the Cottagers from West Bromwich Albion in the summer of 2008. "Roy Hodgson is a very good manager," he said. "He just knows everything about football!
"It's been a great experience for me to play under his management — I've learned lots and definitely become a better player since I moved to Fulham. He's very intelligent and very active on the training ground. He works us hard and we spend a lot of time of the shape of the team, which makes sure that every player knows what their job is and what they need to do."
Gera also feels that his team's Europa League exploits will help raise the profile of the club on the international stage, exposing Fulham to football fans around the globe whose experience of English football often starts and finishes with Manchester United and Chelsea.
"It's great to take Fulham to a new audience by doing well in this competition. We may not be the biggest club in London but Fulham is special because it's so friendly and traditional.
"We've got great supporters and it's really enjoyable to play at Craven Cottage — it's one of the oldest stadiums in the country but it's got real character and a special location, right next to the river. The stands are also really close to the pitch which helps the fans create a brilliant atmosphere — I'm sure they'll do that against Shakhtar on Thursday night."
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/people/profiles/brede-hangeland-shakhtar-will-be-tough-ndash-but-i-enjoy-physical-games-1902789.html
Brede Hangeland: 'Shakhtar will be tough – but I enjoy physical games'
As Fulham face the Uefa Cup holders tonight, their 6ft 5in defender tells Glenn Moore about his lofty ambitions on and off the field
Thursday, 18 February 2010
When Shakhtar Donetsk line up at Craven Cottage tonight the first thing they will notice about Fulham's central defender Brede Hangeland is his height. At 6ft 5in it is everyone's first impression. The day after he signed, Hangeland watched his new team play Arsenal. After Emmanuel Adebayor scored two simple headers Hangeland received a text from a club official. "That's why we need you," it read.
In the two years since Hangeland has frequently repaid that faith, but there is more to the Norwegian than stepladder height. He can play, the legacy in part of a youth spent in midfield, which will be important against the Brazilian-influenced Shakhtar. The Ukrainian side represent the worst of draws, strong but unglamorous opposition from the Continent's outer reaches. They are effectively the holders, being the last winners of the Uefa Cup.
"People who know about football know they are a really good side," says Hangeland. "They will be hard to beat but we'll try because although playing in Europe has been physically tough we've enjoyed it."
The Europa League has not won many admirers but Hangeland knows the value of the Champions League's junior partner. It was in the Uefa Cup six years ago he first came to prominence, and began to realise he could make a mark in the football world.
Hangeland was still making his way when he featured in a notable night for Norwegian football, being part of a Viking Stavanger team which defeated a Chelsea side featuring Frank Lampard, John Terry, Gianfranco Zola, William Gallas and Manu Petit, Fulham team-mate Eric Nevland scoring the late winner. "It was a match which made me realise the gap is not as big as you think, that I could play at that level," says Hangeland. Even more remarkable is the story of how Hangeland reached the Uefa Cup that season. Viking qualified by winning the Norwegian Cup final, a match Hangeland prepared for in military fatigues in the forest. "It was my last week of national service basic training. I'd been up at five every morning that week and was exhausted. When I said to my team-mates I had to go and run around the woods before training they barely believed me. But for a cup final somehow you find the energy."
Hangeland's untypical background also includes two years at university. Had he not made the grade as a pro he might, he said, have become a doctor. Which is one reason why a chill winter's day found him at a converted school in a a troubled tower block estate in Lambeth, south London, having his blood pressure taken. A man who is the living embodiment of the old adage, "eat up your greens and you'll be big and strong", is fronting a Premier League health initiative launched by Fulham aimed at encouraging men to pursue a healthy lifestyle.
Many English players hail from estates like this one, places where footballers can reach people who are either wary or dismissive of health professionals. Hangeland, who lives in Richmond, comes from a more comfortable background, his father having been in the oil industry (the reason he was born in Houston, Texas). Football was not an escape route, merely a career option. Making the sacrifices required to become an elite sportsman in such circumstances required, he says, "motivation from within, but that's what takes you furthest".
"At university I couldn't really enjoy that student life that all people talk about," he adds, "but my fellow students would like to swap with me as well so it goes both ways. I just like playing football. When I had the choice to play professionally or go for a proper education I just thought, 'if you can live off what you love to do the most, then why not try to do that?' I try to remind myself as much as I can how fortunate we are to play football for a living."
This appears to be a genuine sentiment. When asked about Roy Hodgson's preference for long hours on the training ground he replies: "Anyone in a normal job would not say we do long hours." And if he ever gets blasé, he can look back on basic training at the start of his year with the Norwegian Navy. "That first six weeks was proper warfare training. How did it compare to pre-season training? Well we had to get up earlier, about 4.30 in the morning. Then graduation was in November and we had to stand in the cold for two hours. It was hard but when you look back it is something all Norwegian men can talk and laugh about."
Having finished with the military, and quit university, Hangeland's decision to concentrate on football began to pay off when Hodgson took over as Viking manager in 2004. The Englishman found a centre-half who could pass. "I played in midfield until I was 18," says Hangeland. "It is good for a defender not to be scared of the ball and try to do something sensible when you have it."
Hangeland's height means his ability on the ball can go unnoticed, but not by former Fulham defender George Cohen, the 1966 World Cup winner. Cohen was at the launch in a dual role of club legend and cancer survivor. "He has two good feet, and he plays the ball," he said. "He doesn't just whack it – unless it is really necessary – he gets the ball down and he passes it. And he reads the game so well. When he first came I wondered whether he would be up to the pace, but his positional sense is so good he doesn't leave himself exposed."
Hodgson was similarly impressed as, when he took over Fulham in December 2007, he remembered Hangeland, then at FC Copenhagen, 26, and wondering if the Premier League had passed him by. Hangeland did not think twice, but the start was tricky. "It was a shock. I was on a winter break in Denmark and had done more skiing than football. Then I find myself in probably the toughest league in the world in a relegation battle. It was also a change coming from a team which used to win every match and I played in a back four that was on the halfway line, to one which was struggling and playing in our own penalty box."
Hangeland went on to play a major part in Fulham's improbable escape and subsequent European qualification. He was linked with a move to Arsenal but seems happy to have extended his Fulham contract. Longer term he wants to finish his education. "It would be nice to have a piece of paper that says I can do something else than just head and kick a ball."
http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Fulham-boss-Roy-Hodgson-forced-into-playing-full-strength-team-for-Shakhtar-Donetsk-Europa-League-tie-article325859.html
Hodgson forced into playing full strength team for Shakhtar tie
Published 15:34 17/02/10
By Neil McLeman
Roy Hodgson has claimed he will play his strongest side against Shakhtar Donetsk in the Europa League tomorrow night - because he has no choice.
Paul Konchesky has still to return from injury along with long-term victims Andy Johnson, Clint Dempsey, John Pantsil and Kagisho Dikgacoi. New January signings Nicky Shorey and Stefano Okaka are both cup-tied.
The Cottagers have played 14 matches since the Ukrainian side, the reigning UEFA Cup champions who beat Spurs last season, started their mid-winter break.
Shakhtar have been training at Watford"s London Colney training base this week after watching Fulham win through to the last eight of the FA Cup at the weekend.
But Hodgson admitted the fixture pile-up combined with the lengthening injury list means he cannot afford the luxury of squad rotation with the Premier League visit of Birmingham approaching on Sunday.
"It is not too difficult to balance the squads because we only have 18 senior players with Konchesky and now he is not available we will bring in a guy from the academy," he said.
"We will just try to put out the best team each time and hope for no further injuries and hope we can get by in all the games. It is a matter for thought all the time what you do between matches in the training sessions while making certain we don't take too much out of the players because the games are coming so thick and fast.
"But in terms of the selection of the team, it is not that difficult. We are at such advanced stages of the FA Cup and Europa League competitions it is basically a case of trying to get your best teams out all the time and hoping they can cope with the workload."
Zoltan Gera returns to the squad. The second leg of the knockout tie will be held in the Ukraine next week with the winners facing the victors of the Juventus-Ajax tie.
http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Shakhtar-Donetsk-stars-turfed-out-of-Harrods-for-looking-scruffy-and-suspicious-ahead-of-Europa-Cup-tie-with-Mohamed-Al-Fayed-s-Fulham-article325969.html
Shakhtar Donetsk stars turfed out of Harrods for looking scruffy and 'suspicious'
Published 23:00 17/02/10
By Neil McLeman
Fulham's millionaire opponents for tonight's Europa League tie were turned away from Harrods because they looked scruffy and "suspicious".
Shakhtar Donetsk won the UEFA Cup last season and are owned by a steel magnate once listed as the richest man in Europe.
But the squad boasting six Brazilian stars and even more gold credit cards were denied a spending spree in the Knightsbridge store owned by Fulham chairman Mohamed Al-Fayed like a bunch of chavs.
Harrods last night claimed the snub was "in the interest of health and safety".
Roy Hodgson and his team will be looking for a similar shutout of Shakhtar at Craven Cottage tonight.
A furious spokesman for the Ukrainian side, who are nicknamed the Miners, said: "The players decided to increase the earnings of one of London's reputable shops - Harrods.
"The footballers, who have money and are eager to buy a lot, were certain to leave there the big sum but the Miners weren't allowed to enter the shop.
"The staff said that the group of customers was too big and suspicious. All of them were wearing similar tracksuits. The players explained that this was the football team and they had no habit of taking tuxedos to the training camp to go shopping."
Fulham boss Roy Hodgson said: "I'm surprised to hear it. Usually the chairman is only too happy for people to spend their money in the place."
But Harrods, where Fulham players all have their own discount cards, last night admitted the Ukrainians had been stopped from entering the self-styled "most famous luxury department store in the world".
"There are periods, when the store is at its busiest, that Harrods has to take the difficult decision to deny access to tour parties and larger groups of visitors," said a statement.
"This is done in the interest of health and safety."
The irony is that Shakhtar Donetsk have bought their place among Europe's top teams through the generous backing of billionaire Rinat Akmetov.
And Hodgson, whose club are unbeaten at Craven Cottage in Europe, admitted the team currently second in the Ukrainian league will be regarded as favourites.
"Money dominates football," he said. "If you look at all the top teams in the world, they all have one thing in common. They all have enormous budgets. They can pay high transfer fees and very high wages. And Shakhtar definitely come into that category.
"Their budget would be the equivalent of the very best Premier League teams in the country and as a result they sign very good players. I don't feel like an underdog as such but for the larger football world, they would have us as the underdog and Shakhtar would be favourites because of their pedigree and our relative inexperience in Europe."
The winners will have the prize of playing the victors of the Juventus-Ajax tie in the next round.
Ticket Collections
Thursday 18th February 2010
Fulham FC News
As a result of the high number of tickets sold over the last few days the Club is anticipating a large volume of ticket collections prior to Thursday night's UEFA Europa League game against FC Shakhtar Donetsk.
If you have already purchased your tickets for Thursday's game and have tickets to collect these can be picked up from 9am on the day of the game via the Ticket Office or from ticket collection units from 5:30pm until kick-off (8.05pm).
We ask supporters to arrive no later than two hours before kick-off to collect their tickets.
To avoid congestion at the turnstiles all supporters are kindly asked to enter the stadium and take their seats as early as possible on Thursday night.
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/ShakhtarTicketCollections.aspx#ixzz0fsoWZVGA (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/ShakhtarTicketCollections.aspx#ixzz0fsoWZVGA)
Home Advantage
Thursday 18th February 2010
Fulham FC News
European football comes to Craven Cottage once again on Thursday night when the Whites take on current UEFA Cup holders Shakhtar Donetsk in the UEFA Europa League. With a tough away leg in Ukraine just a week later, Fulham defender Aaron Hughes stressed the need to secure the best result possible on home soil.
"It's important that you try not to give away any goals in the home game," Hughes said as he looked ahead to tonight's game. "You try and keep a clean sheet first and foremost. If you can nick a goal then great.
"Our home form is important in these competitions. When you go away, whether to Shakhtar or somewhere else, it's always difficult. So you have to get as much advantage from your home games as possible."
With the scouting work all done, the Fulham players have now familiarised themselves with their opponents.
"We've watched a little bit on DVD," Hughes explained. "We know the areas they're going to be strong in and also areas where we can take advantage - we've been working on that.
"They've got very good technical players, they like to get the ball down and pass it. Of all the clips were saw, there weren't too many long balls being hit, it was all short, sharp stuff around the corner. We know we're in for a tough test.
"The European nights are always good fun, I've always said it's a nice break from the normal domestic season. You get to play against teams from different countries with different styles of play - against players you normally wouldn't face.
"We've been enjoying it and now we find ourselves up against a side that's capable of winning it. They're an experienced side with lots of good technical players - so it's going to be a tough game for us."
Shakhtar Ticket News:
Matchday prices now apply for tonight's Europa League match against FC Shakhtar Donetsk, prices are as follows:
Adults £20
Concessions £15*
Children £10
Make sure you get down to Craven Cottage this evening and experience what is set to be another memorable night of European football at the Cottage (KO 8:05pm) - get your tickets now!|
* Under 21's will not be available on the gate.
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/HughesShakhtarPreview.aspx#ixzz0fsouugxW (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/HughesShakhtarPreview.aspx#ixzz0fsouugxW)
A Massive Game
Thursday 18th February 2010
Fulham FC News
Roy Hodgson's squad received a huge boost last weekend when Simon Davies| completed 90 minutes against Notts County as Fulham secured their place in the Quarter Finals of the FA Cup.
It has been a season of injury frustration for Davies but the Welshman now appears to be firing on all cylinders after two impressive performances last week.
"It was the first time this season that I've played back-to-back games," said the Welsh international. "I managed 60 minutes last Tuesday which was good and it always helps when you're winning.
"The pace of the game had died off towards the end on Sunday and originally I was going to come off but I stayed on to get the 90 minutes under my belt. Hopefully that will make me stronger.
"When you're not up to full speed you're susceptible to little niggles but I felt stronger as the game went on. It made sense to push myself towards the end.
"It generally takes for or five games to get up and running but I'm enjoying it out there and it was good to score on Sunday."
Davies' return is a timely boost for Fulham as the Club faces crucial fixtures on three fronts over the next few weeks, starting with tonight's UEFA Europa League clash against Shakhtar Donetsk at the Cottage.
"I'm hoping to play a big part in the end of the season and it's exciting on all fronts," said Davies. "We're doing well in the Premier League; we're in the Quarter Finals of the FA Cup and in the last 32 of the UEFA Europa League.
"It's a massive game for the Club on Thursday and it signals how far we've come in the two years since the Manager arrived.
"You want to test yourself against the best teams in Europe and Shakhtar are one of the best teams – they won the competition last year so we're all eager and looking forward to testing ourselves against them."
Shakhtar Ticket News:
Matchday prices now apply for tonight's Europa League match against FC Shakhtar Donetsk, prices are as follows:
Adults £20
Concessions £15*
Children £10
Make sure you get down to Craven Cottage this evening and experience what is set to be another memorable night of European football at the Cottage (KO 8:05pm) - get your tickets now!|
* Under 21's will not be available on the gate.
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/DaviesShakhtarChallenge.aspx#ixzz0fspBTGw2 (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/DaviesShakhtarChallenge.aspx#ixzz0fspBTGw2)
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_5957029,00.html
Hodgson hopeful for Dempsey
USA international could make comeback before the summer
Last updated: 18th February 2010
Fulham manager Roy Hodgson is optimistic star midfielder Clint Dempsey will return from injury before the end of the season.
The USA international sustained a serious knee problem in the 2-0 defeat at Blackburn in mid-January and is a doubt to face England at the World Cup in the summer.
But ahead of Fulham's Europa League first leg against Shakhtar Donetsk on Thursday, Hodgson has revealed that Dempsey's rehabilitation is going well.
The Cottagers boss said: "His progress is good and he is working very hard to recover. The medical staff are very happy with him."
Hodgson added: "It's still a long way to go until the end of the season."
http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2010/02/18/fulham-keeper-eyes-shakhtar-success-82029-25857358/
Fulham keeper eyes Shakhtar success
Feb 18 2010
By Chris Slavin
FULHAM keeper Mark Schwarzer is relishing the return of the Europa League campaign and the prospect of going all the way to the final four years after his old club Middlesbrough's success in the same competition.
Schwarzer helped Steve McLaren's side upset the odds by reaching the final of the Uefa Cup in 2006, and the Whites are faced with a similar task this season of knocking out Europe's big guns if they want to go all the way.
But Fulham first have to come through their last-16 tie against Shakhtar Donetsk with the first leg tonight at Craven Cottage.
And the Australian cannot wait to be back involved in the competition.
"It is very exciting to play in Europe," he said. "I have played in European competition before and got to the final with Middlesbrough. It is a fantastic competition to be involved in, it will be tough for us but who knows what can happen?
"It is tough for us playing on a lot of fronts this season in different competitions, but the squad has been strengthened and the ability is there within the squad, without a doubt."
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/leagues/premierleague/fulham/7258734/Shakhtar-Donetsk-refused-Harrods-entry-as-Europa-League-tie-with-Fulham-looms.html
Shakhtar Donetsk refused Harrods entry as Europa League tie with Fulham looms
Shakhtar Donetsk were offered an added incentive to continue the defence of the Europa League at Craven Cottage on Thursday after their players were refused entry to Harrods – owned by Fulham chairman Mohamed Fayed – on the grounds of health and safety.
By John Ley
Published: 7:15AM GMT 18 Feb 2010
Shakhtar, last season's Uefa Cup winners, have been based in St Albans, Hertfordshire, and on Sunday watched Fulham's 4-0 FA Cup win over Notts County, but left after the third goal.
On Tuesday Shakhtar, who beat Werder Bremen in last year's final, visited London's West End but on arrival at Harrods the squad, among the best paid players in eastern Europe and most wearing black club tracksuits, were turned away from one of the world's most exclusive stores.
Sport on television A spokesman for the Ukrainians said: "The staff said that the group of customers was too big and suspicious. All of them were wearing similar tracksuits.
"The players explained that this was a football team and they had no habit of taking tuxedos to the training camp to go shopping. But those explanations were fruitless."
The players went elsewhere and the spokesman added: "The players bought presents for their relatives in another shop and its owner was very glad."
A spokesman for Harrods attempted to explain the embarrassing faux-pas when he said: "There are periods, when the store is at its busiest, that Harrods has to take the difficult decision to deny access to tour parties and larger groups of visitors.
"This is done in the interest of health and safety. Needless to say, we do not wish to offend or upset visitors when making these decisions."
Roy Hodgson, the Fulham manager, was unaware of the events and said: "I'm surprised to hear about this. Normally, the chairman loves people to spend their money with him."
There could more money heading the chairman's way if Fulham maintain their success in cup competitions. Despite a long list of injuries this season Fulham, unbeaten in 12 home European games, are in the last eight of the FA Cup and are now bidding for a place in the final 16 of the newly-formed Europa League.
Hodgson said: "We want to do well in this competition. I guess in my mind we are the underdogs against Shakhtar because they have played in the Champions League and are the current holders of what was the Uefa Cup. They have a big budget and can attract players like the top English, Spanish and Italian clubs.
"Their budget would be the equivalent of the very best Premier League teams in the country and as a result they sign very good players. They don't just get the best from their country, they get the best from the countries surrounding them and have a very good contact in Brazil. But this tournament has been and still is a great adventure for us."
As well as missing the injured John Pantsil, Paul Konchesky, Clint Dempsey, Zoltan Gera, Kagisho Dikgacoi and Andrew Johnson, Hodgson cannot call upon new signings Nicky Shorey or Stefano Okaka, both of whom are cup-tied having featured in the competition for Aston Villa and Roma respectively.
Probable teams
Fulham (4-4-2): Schwarzer; Baird, Hughes, Hangeland, Kelly; Duff, Murphy, Etuhu, Davies; Elm, Zamora.
Shakhtar Donetsk (4-5-1): Pyatov; Hyubschman, Kucher, Rakitsky, Rat; Srna, Fernandinho, Jadson, Willian, Ilsinho; Adriano.
Referee: S Gumienny (Belgium).
Europa Range
Thursday 18th February 2010
Fulham FC News
With Fulham's participation in the UEFA Europa League extended in to the knock-out stages, the Club is proud to offer supporters a variety of Europa League branded Fulham merchandise to choose from in our online store and in the stadium and Fulham road stores.
Fulham take on Shakhtar Donetsk, the current UEFA Cup Champions, on Thursday night and now you can own the one and only official Europa League Scarf| commemorating this historic match for Fulham Football Club. Pick one up| before tonight's match!
Also to choose from are poloshirts, key rings, mugs and more. There is something for every Fulham supporter.
For those fans popping down to Craven Cottage to attend the match on Thursday, you'll have an opportunity to drop into either Club store to pick up some fantastic products from Fulham's Europa League retail range.
Check out the full range in our online store today.|
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2009/October/EuropaRetailRange.aspx#ixzz0fsqT7A5D (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2009/October/EuropaRetailRange.aspx#ixzz0fsqT7A5D)
http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/standard-sport/football/article-23807147-shakhtar-donetsk-dont-scare-us-insists-fulhams-dickson-etuhu.do
Shakhtar Donetsk don't scare us, insists Fulham's Dickson Etuhu
David Smith
18.02.10
Dickson Etuhu's optimism knows no bounds, as evidenced by his declaration that Fulham have nothing to fear from Shakhtar Donetsk at Craven Cottage tonight.
This is the same Shakhtar who, 12 months ago, knocked out Tottenham on the way to winning the last UEFA Cup before that competition became the Europa League.
The same Shakhtar owned by Ukrainian banker Rinat Akhmetov, said to be the richest man in Europe, whose wealth has financed a skilled Brazilian midfield of Fernandinho, Jadson, Willian and Ilsinho plus prolific Brazilian striker Luiz Adriano.
And the same Shakhtar who arrived in London fresh from a Ukrainian League winter break which began on 12 December.
During the intervening period, Fulham played 14 tiring games in which they lost Clint Dempsey, Andy Johnson, Paul Konchesky and Kagisho Dikgacoi to long-term injuries.
But it is a brave man who argues with Etuhu, the imposing Nigeria international who has re-established his successful partnership with fellow central midfielder Danny Murphy after returning from the Africa Cup of Nations.
The 27-year-old said: "Some people say Shakhtar come here as the favourites, and we have to respect that they are a very good side. They're well organised and have good players.
"They will be strong, of course they are, they won the UEFA Cup last season. But we don't fear them.
"We face some of the best players and best teams in the world every week in the Premier League. And teams don't get much bigger than Manchester United and Chelsea.
"It's a different type of football, sure. But we have a lot of experience with a lot of our players playing European and international football. So that shouldn't be a problem."
At least not at the Cottage, which Roy Hodgson's team has turned into something of a fortress this season.
But it is vital Fulham get something from the first leg — either Ajax or Juventus await the overall winner of the tie in the last 16 — because Shakhtar are also handy at home, having won all eight of their Ukrainian League games played this term either at the RSK Olimpiyskiy Stadium or, since late autumn, their new base at the Donbass Arena.
Hodgson shares Etuhu's confidence, even though he concedes that Fulham will start tonight's clash as underdogs. He said: "In terms of European pedigree and European success, Shakhtar are clearly ahead of us.
"But I still think we've done well. Roma are second in the Italian League but we certainly weren't inferior to them in the two matches we played against them in the group stage.
"We played well against Basel, who are also a top European team. So I have every confidence we will play well."
Zoltan Gera is fit after missing five games through injury. But Hodgson has a problem at left-back with Konchesky failing in a brave attempt to make the squad and Nicky Shorey, on loan from Aston Villa, being Cup-tied.
Europa Team News
Thursday 18th February 2010
Fulham FC News
Fulham's squad will be strengthened by the return of Zoltan Gera for tonight's UEFA Europa League clash against Shakhtar Donetsk, although Roy Hodgson will be without several key players for tonight's clash against the current UEFA Cup holders.
"Zoltan Gera will be back on Thursday night," Hodgson confirmed ahead of the game. "We were hoping to have Paul Konchesky but that hasn't worked out. We were hoping he'd recover for this game but at the moment it looks like he won't.
"Zoltan Gera has returned though and other than that we have the long term ones; Clint Dempsey, John Pantsil, Andrew Johnson and Kagisho Dikgacoi.
"We only have senior 18 players, with Konchesky, available for the game. If Konchesky doesn't play we're down to 17 plus one of the guys from the Academy.
"In terms of selecting a Team it's not that difficult. We're at such an advanced stage of the UEFA Europa League competition and FA Cup it's a case of trying to get your best Team out all the time and hoping the players can cope with the workload."
Hodgson has successfully balanced the demands of additional cup competition matches on his squad with great success this season and is clearly enjoying the experience of guiding Fulham to the later stages of the UEFA Europa Cup.
"We think it's fantastic to be a part of this competition," said Hodgson. "It's a great adventure and a feather in the cap of Fulham Football Club. We've taken all games seriously and when I had a bigger squad in the early days I could change things around and give people a chance to play and use the freshest legs for those matches - fortunately that was a policy that paid off.
"Now we're in the final stages of the competition we're playing teams of the highest order – you don't get much higher than the current holders of the trophy. So now it's up to us to try and put out the best Team we can - we'll have to bite the bullet if the workload that these extra matches bring about affects us in the league matches."
Hodgson's Team face the current UEFA Cup holders this evening at the Cottage and after preparing meticulously for the tie, the players will enter the fray this evening looking to gain a home leg advantage over their Ukrainian opponents.
"We know their [Shakhtar Donetsk] style. It's very much a passing style based on the movement and ability of their Brazilian players who play behind the striker and of course their ability to use the wide areas with their offensive full backs.
"We know perfectly well having watched them from the videos we've watched and the large number of match reports we've had on them recently.
"We think, certainly the coaching staff, and we hope we pass this over to the players, we have a fairly good idea of the type of football they play - and they play it well. They have good quality players and knowing what a team tries to do and watching them play is one thing, but combating it always another."
Shakhtar Ticket News:
Matchday prices now apply for tonight's Europa League match against FC Shakhtar Donetsk, prices are as follows:
Adults £20
Concessions £15*
Children £10
Make sure you get down to Craven Cottage this evening and experience what is set to be another memorable night of European football at the Cottage (KO 8:05pm) - get your tickets now!|
* Under 21's will not be available on the gate.
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/EuropeanTeamNews.aspx#ixzz0fsr7oqlf (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/EuropeanTeamNews.aspx#ixzz0fsr7oqlf)
Matchday Travel Warning
Thursday 18th February 2010
Fulham FC News
Supporters travelling to the Cottage this evening for the Club's UEFA Europa League clash should be aware that current gasworks are causing delays in both directions on the A3.
The works are taking place on Roehampton Lane before the Robin Hood roundabout and at present only one lane is open in both directions.
The Club encourages supporters to allow plenty of time to travel to Craven Cottage on Thursday evening.
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/ShakhtarTravelNotice.aspx#ixzz0fsrNpCcb (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/ShakhtarTravelNotice.aspx#ixzz0fsrNpCcb)
Shakhtar Programme Preview
Thursday 18th February 2010
Fulham FC News
Thursday night sees Craven Cottage play host to the biggest European fixture in Fulham FC history yet as UEFA Cup holders Shakhtar Donetsk come to London in the last 32 of the UEFA Europa League...
With a team full of established European internationals and skilful Brazilians, Shakhtar's visit will make for an intriguing and entertaining spectacle that will be talked about for decades to come.
So pick up a permanent keepsake of the occasion, the official matchday programme.
Complete with a special UEFA Europa League collectors' edition design, the 68-page magazine is full of all the essential matchday information.
The perfect game night complement, this very special issue includes:
Exclusive insight from Manager Roy Hodgson .
Danny Murphy's views on Sunday's FA Cup win.
Northern Ireland captain Aaron Hughes reflects on the European adventure to date, and sets his sights on continuing it for a while yet.
The complete low-down on our visitors Shakhtar Donetsk .
A photographic account of our UEFA Euopa League journey to date.
A guest column from Whites defender of our 2002 Intertoto Cup triumph, Abdeslam Ouaddou .
Rewind with Fulham expert Ian McCulloch as he digs out a matchday programme from that Intertoto Cup run.
Match action from the memorable Group stage finale in Basel, and the recent Premier League draw at Bolton.
A flick through the photo archives of recent squad addition Nicky Shorey .
Through the ranks profile on Development Squad starlet Alex Smith .
Unprecedented fan interaction and tonnes of fun for younger fans too.
Plus, so much more besides!
The brilliant matchday publication costs just £3 and will be on sale in and around the ground from two-hours before kick-off.
If you miss your copy outside then look out for sellers on the Putney and Hammersmith Terrace, or at half-time from the programme room situated inside the Johnny Haynes Stand by Block E (opposite Turnstile 24).
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/ShakhtarProgrammePreview.aspx#ixzz0fsrdUwt5 (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/ShakhtarProgrammePreview.aspx#ixzz0fsrdUwt5)
http://www.thisiswesternmorningnews.co.uk/football/Stockdale-stay-Argyle/article-1842482-detail/article.html
Stockdale to stay at Argyle
Thursday, February 18, 2010, 09:00
PLYMOUTH Argyle head coach Paul Mariner has hailed the news that goalkeeper David Stockdale is remaining at Home Park for at least another month.
The Pilgrims borrowed the highly promising 24-year-old from Fulham in January. The initial loan transfer expires today, but Mariner confirmed after Tuesday's 1-1 Coca-Cola Championship draw against Swansea City at Home Park that the deal had been extended by another month.
Stockdale cannot stay with Plymouth until the end of the season. If the transfer is extended for a third and final month, he will have to return to Craven Cottage after Argyle's penultimate Championship game at Nottingham Forest on April 24. Mariner is not looking that far ahead, though. For now, he is just happy to retain the services of the Yorkshireman.
"David is returning for one month, and we're trying to roll it on from that," the head coach revealed. Mariner also thanked Fulham manager Roy Hodgson and goalkeeping coach Mike Kelly – who had a spell as Argyle boss 33 years ago – for their help in sorting out Stockdale's continued stay in Devon.
"We're happy with what Roy and his staff have sorted out for us," Mariner said. "We have a fantastic rapport with Roy and Mike Kelly, who is his mentor. Mike speaks very highly of him, and we're very thankful to them for letting him out."
Stockdale won the match sponsors' man-of-the-match accolade on Tuesday. He made two fine saves in quick succession to prevent Spanish striker Gorka Pintado giving Swansea the lead early in the game, and then he denied Darren Pratley when the midfielder had the chance to double the visitors' advantage in the second half.
"He made three saves," Mariner recalled. "Two early on, with his feet, and the one late on with his hand, which was a very good save. I think he has improved the team, he helps the back four, so I'm delighted that he joined us.
"He has fitted into the squad very well," the head coach added. "He's an amiable lad, and he works very hard at his game. I think he has proven to everybody that he's commanding in the box. He's a young goalkeeper, he still has things to learn, but he understands that."
Stockdale was left exposed when Pratley ran through Argyle's rearguard to score Swansea's goal in the opening minute of the second period. "We had the ball on the halfway line, and we gave it away," Mariner admitted.
"It was a fantastic, weighted pass through to the runner, and he took it very well, but, from our viewpoint, a ball going through the heart of our defence is very poor.
"We'll have to assess what happened there," added the head coach, who was more impressed with the way in which his players dealt with the task of restoring parity. "The team were shell- shocked for five minutes, and then they responded with a bit of a grandstand finish towards the end."
Argyle will resume their quest for points to lift themselves out of the Championship relegation zone on Saturday, when they entertain Leicester City at Home Park. The Pilgrims languish in 23rd place in the table. The Foxes, who are in sixth position, drew 1-1 at Bristol City on Tuesday.
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11681_5956903,00.html
Hodgson does his homework
Cottagers ready for Euro test
By Chris Burton
Last updated: 18th February 2010
Roy Hodgson is calling on fans to enter 'Barclays Around the World in 90 Minutes' a global fan competition to find the best Barclays Premier League match-day experience of any fan in the world. Fans have until 22nd March to enter via the competition website - www.barclaysfootball.com (http://www.barclaysfootball.com)
Roy Hodgson has told skysports.com that Fulham have done their homework on Shakhtar Donetsk.
The Cottagers have been paired against last season's UEFA Cup winners in the last 32 of the Europa League.
The first leg of the intriguing continental contest takes place at Craven Cottage on Thursday, offering Fulham an opportunity to further enhance a promising campaign.
Hodgson is under no illusion as to the size of the task facing his side, but insists he is fully prepared for the relatively unknown quantity that is Eastern European opposition.
"It is interesting. Once you reach the round of 32 it is always going to be interesting and on paper very tough," he told skysports.com.
"To get the reigning champions and a team which is of great interest to everyone in Europe, because we don't come across Ukrainian or Russian football that often, it is a very interesting draw for us. We are looking forward to the game, albeit that we know we have a very tough test ahead.
"The Premier League is our bread and butter, and that is what keeps us afloat and where the largest part of our income is, but on the other hand it was great last year to finish so high up that we got a place in Europe and it's been a really good experience so far getting to this last 32.
"We have enjoyed all the games and all the experiences and I think it is helping us to grow as a club. It is giving some of our players, not so much the ones who play regular internationals but the others, a taste of European football which they might not have got otherwise."
Routine
Shakhtar are currently in the middle of their winter break, with the Ukrainian season shutting down in early December, but Hodgson does not buy into the belief that a lack of action could see them arrive in England a little ring rusty.
"It's difficult to say. I think it is a question for them whether they think the rest has been advantageous or disadvantageous," he said.
"I have been in that situation many times with Scandinavian teams, Malmo in particular, where we have got to the quarter-finals of competitions or the last 32 and we have come out of a break.
"I have to say that it never affected us that badly but there is no doubt that we are more in the routine of competition than they are, despite the fact that they have been out of the country a long time trying to find grass pitches and worthy opponents."
Hodgson is not a man to leave things to chance, renowned for throwing himself into his work, and despite Shakhtar's recent lack of playing time he is fully versed on what to expect from Mircea Lucescu's side.
He said: "We have seen quite a lot of reports and videos on them. We have studied video of their match against Tottenham last year and we have studied video of their final matches in the Ukrainian league, not least their one against Dynamo Kiev, and we have looked at videos and reports from the recent Marbella tournament which they have taken part in.
"We feel we have a fairly good idea of who they are and how they try to play. But of course all of us teams in the Premier League playing in Europe, we have always got important games before and after so one can only be focused on the European game for a short period of time i.e. after the cup game against Notts County and before the league game against Birmingham."
European glory? Fulham are concentrating on FA Cup, insists Aaron Hughes
By Sportsmail Reporter
Last updated at 10:16 AM on 18th February 2010
Comments (0) Add to My Stories Fulham defender Aaron Hughes admits he would rather win the FA Cup than the Europa League.
The Cottagers are chasing silverware on two fronts with their next assignment coming in Europe against Shakhtar Donetsk in the first leg of the round of 32.
A 4-0 thumping of Notts County on Sunday has also sent them galloping into the quarter-finals of the FA Cup.
Hughes insists that for Fulham to be contemplating silverware is remarkable, but looks closer to home when comes to his preference.
'I'd rather win the FA Cup because it's a domestic competition and as a kid growing up it's the one you think about,' he said.
'For us to even talk about winning either of them is a massive thing. But the FA Cup still has that something special, especially now it's back at Wembley. It's a massive day.
'That said, if we could progress in the Europa League I wouldn't say no.'
Fulham are enjoying another fine season but Hughes admits Shakhtar, the reigning champions, have the capacity to dent their ambitions.
'European nights are always good fun. They're a nice break from the domestic season and the teams you face there,' he said. 'You face new teams from different countries who have different styles of play.
'We've been enjoying it and giving it a good go. Now we find ourselves up against a side that has shown they're capable of winning it.
'They're a good, technical side and it will be a tough game, but we'll give our best.'
Fulham could conceivably qualify for the Champions League if a new proposal to introduce a play off for the fourth qualifying spot is introduced.
The idea would see the teams placed fourth down to seventh battle it out for a place in Europe's most prestigious competition, but Hughes is sceptical over the idea.
'If you work hard enough to finish in fourth place over the course of a season, you deserve to qualify,' he said.
'Having accumulated enough points to finish fourth, to then have to play another couple of games would be tough.'
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1251916/European-glory-Fulham-concentrating-FA-Cup-insists-Aaron-Hughes.html?ITO=1490#ixzz0fssv7KgE (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1251916/European-glory-Fulham-concentrating-FA-Cup-insists-Aaron-Hughes.html?ITO=1490#ixzz0fssv7KgE)
FULHAM v Shakhtar Donetsk: Paul Konchesky set to miss crunch last 32 Europa League tie
By Sportsmail Reporter
Last updated at 10:22 AM on 18th February 2010
Fulham defender Paul Konchesky is unlikely to be available for tonight's Europa League clash with Shakhtar Donetsk.
Konchesky has returned to light training after recovering from his foot injury
but the first leg of the last-32 match appears too early for his comeback.
Zoltan Gera returns from his knee problem but long-term casualties Kagisho Dikgacoi (ankle), Andrew Johnson, Clint Dempsey and John Pantsil (all knee) are out.
Provisional squad: Schwarzer, Zuberbuhler, Baird, Kelly, Stoor, Hangeland, Hughes, Smalling, Shorey, Gera, Duff, Murphy, Greening, Davies, Etuhu, Riise, Nevland, Okaka, Elm, Zamora.
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1251940/FULHAM-v-Shakhtar-Donetsk-Paul-Konchesky-set-miss-crunch-32-Europa-League-tie.html?ITO=1490#ixzz0fstNvHwq (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1251940/FULHAM-v-Shakhtar-Donetsk-Paul-Konchesky-set-miss-crunch-32-Europa-League-tie.html?ITO=1490#ixzz0fstNvHwq)
http://sport.stv.tv/football/scottish-premier/celtic/158242-celtic-form-earns-kamara-senegal-recall/
Celtic form earns Kamara Senegal recall
Diomansy Kamara's performances since moving to Celtic on loan impresses Senegal coach Amara Traore.
18 February 2010 10:43 AM
A lion once again: Kamara roars back into Senegal squad
Celtic striker Diomansy Kamara's recent form has seen him recalled to the Senegal national team. The forward, who is on loan at Parkhead, has ended his spell in the international wilderness and been named in the Senegal squad for the first time in more than two years.
Kamara joined Celtic from Fulham on transfer deadline day in a loan deal until the end of the season. Since making the move he has hit the net twice in two games for Celtic, impressing fans and pundits as well as Senegal's manager.
Amara Traore has now named the striker in his squad to play Greece in a friendly next month. Kamara will now jet out to join up with the squad after the match against Rangers on February 28.
The striker has not pulled on a Senegal jersey since the 2008 Africa Cup of Nations. Kamara, capped 40 times for his country, scored in Senegal's opening game against Tunisia but two draws and a defeat saw the Lions of Teranga exit the competition at the group stage.
After failing to gain regular first-team football under Roy Hodgson at Fulham, Kamara is clearly enjoying his time at Parkhead. While an international call-up is a welcome boost for the French-born player, he said he felt his club side could improve despite his good start in green and white.
"When new players come in you need to train more to get to know each other and play properly," he said. "So in a few games you will see Celtic stronger than now.
"We have played a few games together and have improved.
"It was an unbelievable feeling to score. When you are a striker, you look to score early at a club to give yourself confidence."
Kamara was reunited with Tony Mowbray after playing under the manager in his time at West Bromwich Albion. Kamara was named in the PFA Championship team of the year before being sold to Fulham for £6 million in 2007.
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/10/02/18/SOCCER_Birmingham.html
MAIK TAYLOR KEEN TO STAY AT BLUES
By John Curtis, Press Association Sport
Maik Taylor wants extend his stay at Birmingham when his current contract ends this summer - even though he has lost his first-team spot to on-loan Joe Hart.
The Northern Ireland keeper played a key role in helping City gain promotion to the Barclays Premier League last season.
But he has made only one top-flight start during the current campaign when Hart was unable to play against his parent club, Manchester City.
Blues boss Alex McLeish is hoping Hart will be able to extend his stay at St. Andrew's for at least another season but Taylor is still keen to remain at the midlands club.
Taylor said: "It has been frustrating because, as a professional, everybody wants to play but unfortunately, as a goalkeeper, only one player can take that position.
"At the moment Joe has got the jersey and is doing fantastically well which is making it extremely difficult for me to get into the team.
"But it would be great if I can continue at Birmingham. I will have to sit down with the club at some stage and still feel I have got a lot to offer on the playing front.
"In the only league game I played, against Manchester City, I was really pleased with my own performance.
"I would prefer to be in the team but, should Joe's form dip over time, hopefully the manager would be fair to me and give me my opportunity.
"Other than not being in the team, I am absolutely happy with everything. My family are settled so it would be great to continue at Birmingham."
Taylor believes Hart's current form will bolster his chances of being part of the England World Cup squad in South Africa in June.
He said: "I have the utmost respect for Joe and he is certainly doing himself the world of good in terms of going to the World Cup this summer. He is a great lad and works extremely hard."
http://www.skysports.com/football/match_preview/0,19764,11065_3227685,00.html
Fulham v Shakhtar preview
Fulham face reigning champions in last 32 of Europa League
Last updated: 18th February 2010
Fulham's European adventure continues with a home clash against Shakhtar Donetsk on Thursday evening.
The Cottagers started out on the long road to Hamburg at the end of July and had to make it through two qualifying rounds just to take their place in the group phase.
Manager Roy Hodgson has had to juggle the demands of continental action with a gruelling Premier League campaign as well as an FA Cup run and a number of key players have been struck down by injury.
Fulham have nevertheless managed to maintain a strong challenge on the domestic front and can now devote their full attention to the first leg of an intriguing Europa League tie.
Shakhtar Donetsk lifted the Uefa Cup last season and are among the favourites to go all the way again after topping their group.
Fulham will have to be at their best to overcome the Ukrainians and advance to the last 16, but Hodgson has been doing his homework and will have briefed his players in meticulous detail.
Full-back Paul Konchesky is unlikely to be available for the Craven Cottage clash.
He has returned to light training following a foot injury but is still not back to full fitness and the midweek match appears to have come too early for him.
Zoltan Gera returns from his knee problem but long-term casualties Kagisho Dikgacoi (ankle), Andrew Johnson, Clint Dempsey and John Pantsil (all knee) are all out.
Shakhtar news
Mircea Lucescu does not have the same injury problems as his Fulham counterpart as Shakhtar have not played a competitive game since before Christmas.
The Ukrainian league does not restart until the end of February and Lucescu will hope his players are refreshed rather than rusty.
Captain Darijo Srna does not believe Shakhtar's lack of action will be a major factor and is in confident mood ahead of the encounter.
"No doubt it will be a very hard match, but I am positive that we'll pass this test," Srna told Uefa's official website.
"Fulham are really solid at home, they don't just defend in London. They need to score, so it will be an open affair.
"I believe Shakhtar are more skilful, we are better with the ball. If we can combine those qualities with discipline, everything will be fine."
