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Saturday Fulham Stuff (14.05.11)

Started by White Noise, May 13, 2011, 10:54:02 PM

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White Noise


Pride In Defeat



Friday 13th May 2011





Fulham were defeated 2-1 by Everton in the Academy League Final at Craven Cottage on Friday night. Ronny Minkwitz handed Fulham the lead after 75 minutes with a stunning drive from the edge of the area. However Everton fought back and secured the title with two late goals.

Prior to Friday night's Final, Kit Symons' team had produced a remarkable 12-match unbeaten run following their exit from the FA Youth Cup in early February to claim top spot in their respective Academy League group.

A thrilling Semi-Final penalty shoot-out victory over Sunderland followed on Tuesday evening at Motspur Park which earned Fulham's current crop of talented youngsters the chance to put their names in the Club's history books.

Standing in their way was a physically imposing Everton side that arrived at the Cottage to compete for the title of 2010/11 Academy League Champions.

Fulham got the game underway attacking the Putney End and made an impressive start to the match, breaking through Everton's defence twice in the first three minutes of play with fast paced counter attacks down the flanks.

Despite Fulham's bright start it was Everton who created the first clear cut chance of the night after four minutes of play, when Conor McAleny's shot from the left hand side of the area was parried away by the outstretched Fulham goalkeeper Jesse Joronen.

The football on show during the early stages was befitting of a Final and Fulham looked more than comfortable controlling the pace of the game with their high tempo pass and move play, which produced two efforts on goal after 12 minutes of play.

First, Alex Brister picked out Fulham striker Marcello Trotta with a delightful defence splitting ball over Everton's defence down the right channel. Trotta weaved his way into the box but saw his left-footed effort across goal deflected away for a corner.

From the resulting corner Ronny Minkwitz beat his marker to head goalwards at the far post but Everton keeper Adam Davies was well positioned to collect with ease. At the other end Fulham's defence was being well protected by Josh Pritchard, who produced one full-blooded challenge in the centre of the park on 15 minutes that showed Fulham were not going to be outmuscled by a physically imposing Everton.



On 21 minutes Fulham once again tore through Everton's defence down the right flank, earning Kerim Frei a sight of goal from 16 yards. Frei delivered a stinging strike which flew just over the cross bar. Fulham were creating the chances but were just lacking a clinical finish to hand themselves an advantage.

Fortunately for Fulham, Everton were also missing a clinical edge when they earned arguably the best chance of the game after 32 minutes, with Conor McAleny heading wide from just six yards out.

Following Everton's missed opportunity Fulham moved up a gear and resumed their snappy one-touch play, sprinkled with some impressive moments of skill from Josh Pritchard and Alex Brister. On 36 minutes Ronny Minkwitz fired over from 18 yards as the stakes in possession moved back in Fulham's favour.

The pace of the game dropped off as half-time approached but Fulham's first-half performance was one of verve and confidence, with all eleven players reaching the high levels of performance that had brought them all the way to Friday's Final.

Everton got the second half underway and it was no surprise to see the game tighten up considering what was at stake on the night. One player with the talent to break the deadlock with an individual moment of brilliant was Fulham's Kerim Frei, but despite the youngster's best efforts, Everton's imposing centre backs stood firm.

With both teams remaining impregnable it took 11 minutes for the first chance of the second half to be fashioned. It came from Everton in the form of a low rasping shot from Conor McAleny, but in truth Jesse Joronen never looked troubled as the ball fizzed wide of goal.

Fulham captain Cheick Toure made some crucial interceptions and blocks outside Fulham's area as the hour mark approached and his defensive colleague at right back, Cristian Marquez-Sanchez, really came to the fore with some rampaging runs down the home side's right flank.

Kit Symons made the first chance of substitution of the game, replacing midfielder Alex Brister with Corey Gameiro after 64 minutes. Just moments later left back Alex Smith raced to the Everton by-line and delivered a superb cross across the six-yard line which just evaded striker Marcello Trotta.

Fulham's watching supporters had a heart-stopping moment on 70 minutes when Everton midfielder player Conor McAleny delivered a cross from the right that evaded Fulham's defence and brushed past the far post.

15 minutes from fulltime Corey Gamiero latched onto a ball over Everton's defence to race clear for a one-on-one with Everton keeper Adam Davies. Gamiero appeared to be wrestled to the ground by Everton captain Jake Bidwell but Referee Fitch waved play on.



Fulham's frustration was short lived when a neat interchange of passes in Everton's half offered Ronny Minkwitz a sight of goal from 20 yards. The midfielder left Adam Davies in goal with no chance, his drive rising into the roof of the net to send Fulham's players and fans into jubilant celebrations. It was a stunning drive from Minkwitz and Fulham's players certainly enjoyed the moment.

Barely a minute later Everton keeper Adam Davies saved Everton from almost certain defeat with a brave save in a crowded area. Fulham were just ten minutes away from glory but Everton were not going out without a fight and nine minutes from time a deep cross into the area was driven home by Adam Thomas to bring the score level.

Following their equaliser Everton bombarded Fulham's area with a series of crosses and set pieces from deep and on 85 minutes it paid dividends with George Waring rising above his marker in the area to head home a cross from the left. Everton had taken a 2-1 lead with five minutes remaining.

Kit Symons made his second substitution of the game on 86 minutes, replacing Marcello Trotta with Richard Peniket. Just seconds after his introduction, Peniket was set free down the left flank but as he raced into the area the striker sent his shot over the bar.

Fulham looked to be running out of time as four minutes of added time were announced. Kit Symons' Team attacked in waves, desperately searching for an equaliser. Unfortunately it remained elusive as Everton's defence stood firm. It was a desperately disappointing end for Fulham's Academy players as Everton claimed the title of Academy League Champions at the Cottage.

Fulham's Academy staff, players and management should be immensely proud of their achievements this season. A unbeaten run of 13 games took them to Friday night's Final and the future certainly bodes well for Fulham Football Club judging by the talent, work ethic and professionalism displayed by every member of the Academy team this season.

The Club would like to thank all the supporters who attended Friday's Final at the Cottage. Your support was greatly appreciated.

Teams
Fulham FC: Jesse Joronen, Cristian Marquez-Sanchez, Alex Smith, Josh Pritchard, Cheick Toure (Capt), Stephen Arthurworrey, Alex Brister, Ronny Minkwitz, Marcello Trotta, Kerim Frei, Courtney Harris

Subs: Grant Smith (GK), Richard Peniket, Charles Banya, Josh Passley, Corey Gameiro

Everton FC: Adam Davies, Tyais Browning, Luke Garbutt, Jake Birdwell (Capt), Eric Dier, Jordan Barrow, Conor McAlleny, Thomas Donegan, Gerard Kinsella, Anton Forrester, Adam Thomas

Subs: Connor Roberts (GK), Ryan Higgins, Tom Molyneux, George Waring, Daniel O'Brien


Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/May/AcademyFinalMatch.aspx#ixzz1MGuX6Y5Y

White Noise


Team News



Friday 13th May 2011





Ahead of Sunday's penultimate match of the season against Birmingham City at St. Andrews, Mark Hughes has injury concerns over Bobby Zamora and Simon Davies.

Whilst Davies has not trained since Fulham's defeat to Liverpool, Zamora only missed Friday's session and Hughes remains hopeful that both players will be fit for Sunday's game.

"Bobby didn't complete training on Friday because he was suffering from soreness in his groin," Hughes told fulhamfc.com. "We pulled him out of training as a precaution and we're hopeful that will settle down and he'll be able to train on Saturday.

"Simon Davies got a kick on his calf [against Liverpool] and there was localised bleeding so he hasn't trained since the match. Having worked him with the physiotherapists on Friday we're hopeful that as long as the area doesn't bleed he'll have a chance this weekend."

One player who will be fit for Sunday's match is Zoltan Gera. The Hungarian international captain has returned to full fitness after a spell on the sidelines due to injury and is an option for Hughes this weekend.

"Zolly has missed a couple of weeks training but he's back now, he's trained and he's fit, so he should be okay for Sunday."


Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/May/InjuryNews.aspx#ixzz1MGvRU0RL




White Noise

Real Talent


Friday 13th May 2011




A dejected Kit Symons spoke proudly of his Under-18 side on Friday night, after watching them narrowly overcome in the Academy Premier League Final by Everton.

In the climax to a long, demanding season, the Toffees fought back from one-goal down to win the game in its late stages and break Fulham hearts, but the Whites' coach had nothing but positive things to say about his young charges.

"I was really proud of their performance tonight, and over the course of the season they've been tremendous," he reflected.

"Ever since we lost to Watford in the FA Youth Cup, with what was a poor performance on the night, they've been excellent. They've been on a really long unbeaten run and it was a real hard knock to take having that run ended tonight in the manner we did."

The home side were arguably the more impressive on the night, controlling possession for long spells and passing the ball around with more technical grace and purpose, but in the end it wasn't enough as Everton's more powerful, direct style proved victorious.

"Overall, I thought we performed really well and played some great stuff at times, and it was unfortunate not to get the victory, especially being 1-0 up so late on," said Symons.

"The fact that we played so well makes defeat harder to take, but at the same time, it is good to see us playing like that.

"We're trying to do the right things with the players we've got and they've responded fantastically well. But you've got to be able to play against all different kinds of teams and come out on top – that's what really good teams can do. We are a good side, but maybe we're lacking that little something – tonight it was perhaps a little luck that we missed.

"Overall, on the balance of play I thought we probably shaded it. They're a good side, strong physically and they gave us some problems. But it was a decent game of football and in a funny way, although we didn't win, I did enjoy the game, and I'm very, very proud of my boys."

It was just three days since the Under-18s disposed of Sunderland in the semi-final, a match that went to extra time and penalties, but Symons denied that fatigue played any part in this result.

"I thought physically we looked pretty good," he opined. "We were chasing it towards the end and looked like we had a bit of running still in us. Obviously Tuesday did take a bit out of the boys, but they still performed well physically and I couldn't have asked any more of them."

And regardless of the result, anyone present at Craven Cottage will have left impressed by the prospective talents of what we hope will be the future generation of Fulham stars.

"With the way Academy football is structured you can play three third year scholars, under-19s, in games like this and tonight we had Courtney Harris and Alex Smith," Kit explained. "Everton also had two or three of their own.

"So Alex and Courtney will move on to be solely reserve players next year, like the bulk of the games they've played this year. So we wish them all the best and hopefully they can push on in the reserves and further their careers.

"This year's second years will become third years and may still play for us from time to time, but we want to see them develop in the reserves and hopefully get in the First Team, because that's what youth football is all about really.

"Finally, it's worth pointing out that there were quite a few first years out there, and Stephen Athurworrey is a schoolboy. They'll all be the core of our team next year, so we're quite healthy really.

"As I say, it was disappointing tonight, but overall, when you look at the Academy from top to bottom and there is some real talent coming through.

"The Fulham Academy is a good place to be at the moment."


Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/May/SymonsFinalReaction.aspx#ixzz1MIsbxivp

White Noise

Win Fulham v Arsenal tickets!

By Jacob Murtagh



May 13 2011


EA SPORTS™, the Official Sports Technology Partner of the Premier League, has teamed up with Trinity Mirror Southern to offer one lucky reader a pair of tickets to your team's next Barclays Premier League Match.

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

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

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

What is the name of Arsenal's manager?

To enter, visit our Facebook page, click 'like this' and post your answer underneath.

Closing date for entries is midday Monday. Normal competition rules apply.


Read More http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/05/13/win-fulham-v-arsenal-tickets-82029-28692176/#ixzz1MIucjqhR


White Noise


http://fulhamsfinest.com/



Birmingham City vs. Fulham: One Match at a Time


Posted: May 13, 2011

by Kyle in Previews

The hardest part about getting blown out is putting the game behind you.  This will be the test for Fulham as they look to put the 5-2 careful demolition of Craven Cottage by Liverpool behind them and hit the road.  Unfortunately, that's going to be a tall task, especially for those such as Mark Schwarzer that had a disaster of a game.  Not only is the mental aspect not easy, but there are a few personnel changes that are going to be made, headlined by Chris Baird most likely grabbing a 2-match ban for telling the ref to......well, it's not G rated.  But never a good idea.  It's kind of comical to me that he is getting suspended for it, because here in America there's no meaning behind the V-sign he made to referee Lee Mason, so I was at first confused why it was such a big deal.  But after discovering it's equivalent to the finger, it makes more sense.  We'll get into more personnel changes here in a bit.  First, a look at the opposition.

State of Birmingham City:

Birmingham manager Peter Grant has come out and said he is wary of a Fulham side with something to prove after their loss to Liverpool.  Basically Grant is complimenting the Whites for being mentally tough and that they will come out with a vendetta rather than with a mental hangover from the loss, which is a pretty high compliment.  He also paid Fulham some pretty nice words, here they are:

"Up to the Liverpool game, I would probably say, if you're talking over the  past month to five weeks, they've been the most exciting team in the respect to  the way they have played. The way they have passed and moved the ball, the quality of the players they  have. I think if you look at Fulham now, with Johnson, Zamora, Dembele,  Gudjohnsen, I think most teams in the division would take those guys. I was  looking at their bench on Monday and most of them would probably be playing in  other teams. So they're a strong side and will be hurting after the disappointment of  Monday. I know Mark Hughes will be demanding a result and they will have guys  playing for contracts and that as well."
Some nice words from Grant. Hopefully we can make him look smart.  Grant knows a thing or two about getting murdered by Liverpool, having lost 5-0 to them less than a month ago.  The Blues haven't won a match since beating Sunderland 2-0 back on April 16.  They currently sit 2 spots ahead of the drop zone in the table, with only a 3 point cushion seperating them from the Championship.  With their final 2 matches against Fulham and Tottenham, they have legitimate concerns about where they sit.

Personnel-wise, Birmingham will be without leading scorer Craig Gardner as well as Liam Ridgewell.  Gardner is serving a 2-match ban of his own after receiving a straight red card against Wigan, and Ridgewell got 1 game for his handball-on-the-line red card vs. Newcastle last week.  Nikola Zigic will most likely miss the match with a groin injury.

State of Fulham:

There's a lot to get into here.  First things, reports were flowing in that Mark Hughes was expecting to make a few changes from the Liverpool side, the most obvious being Philippe Senderos replacing the suspended Chris Baird, being inserted into the center with Brede Hangeland and Aaron Hughes moving to the right.  Then, some sources were saying Zamora and Andy Johnson would be replacing the relatively ineffective Moussa Dembele and Eidur Gudjohnsen to try and get a few new faces in the lineup.  Now however, Bobby Zamora pulled up lame in practice and is battling a slight groin injury, so his lineup status is in doubt.  We all know with Mark Hughes that he hates to risk Zamora, and with him getting hit with this knock in training, Hughes I would guess will turn to Gael Kakuta, who has been begging for playing time.  It's going to be interesting to see his lineup.  I've stopped trying to guess what's going to happen because every time I do Hughes tricks everyone.  The other thing to keep in mind that I wouldn't put past Mark Hughes is giving David Stockdale a chance or two in goal for Mark Schwarzer, who is probably still mentally hungover from his awful Liverpool game. Those kinds of things can have a big effect on goalkeepers unfortunately. Finally, Simon Davies won't be playing as he got injured during the Liverpool match (internal bleeding in his calf, which sounds somewhat serious) and hasn't kicked a ball since. Could Zoltan Gera see his first action in a long time?

After the beating by Liverpool last Monday, Fulham now sit in 10th place with 45 points, one behind Bolton and Stoke and one ahead of Newcastle and Sunderland.  This is Fulham's best chance to pick up points before the end of the season and secure a top-10 finish, with the 3rd place Gunners visiting the Cottage for the season finale.

A few other bits of news out of the Cottage, Mark Hughes admitted if Gera wants guaranteed playing time he may want to go elsewhere, and according to reports, QPR is very interested.  Gera wouldn't net Hughes much more than a million or two, but he would probably be a big asset for the Premier League newcomers.  Hughes still holds that he wants Gera to stick around and he will talk with Zoltan over the next few weeks, but I think he's a sure goner.

Also from Mark Hughes, he put out a statement saying he's extremely happy at Fulham and wants to be here in the long term.  Here's his statement:

"I get asked invariably every press conference in fairness. I just thought it was important that people understood and that I needed to clarify my feelings towards the position I hold. As I have said many, many times before, I really enjoy being here. We have great potential and we're looking to build on what we've achieved this year. We want to finish in that top ten if we can and then we will be able to look back on the season and ahead to next season with real confidence. We've got the basis of a good team. I am very clear in how far we can go as a club – it's fair to say there is a glass ceiling for clubs in a similar position – but that does not mean it's not challenging."
Some very promising words from the manager.

Europa League may very well be on the minds of the Whites during this match as well.  As if Fulham needed another card-happy referee after their performance against Liverpool saw them fall to a tie with Tottenham in the Fair Play table, they draw Peter Walton, who has given just one less card point (1 for a yellow 2 for a red) than last week's referee Lee Mason, and 3rd overall for the Premier League referees. In 27 matches, Walton has given out 99 yellows and 1 red.  If Manchester City wins the FA cup, they will leave one more Europa spot in the PL, which means Tottenham most likely will get that spot.  If that's the case, it doesn't matter where Spurs finish in the Fair Play table since they've already qualified, and Fulham will most likely get the spot.
HOWEVER
IF Stoke City pulls out the upset in the FA Cup final, that means there will be only 5 Europa League spots given out to the top finishers in the table, which means Spurs may NOT end up with a EL spot.  THEN we have a Fair Play table battle, and anything could happen.  So let's PLEASE not pick up too many cards? That would be great.  Thank you.

Fulham will win if...they put the Liverpool match behind them and remember they're actually a top-10 team.  This match to me is going to be very dependant on the mental aspect of the game.  Fulham are a good team.  Probably deserving of a 9th place finish or so.  And it's possible if they play like they are capable of.

Prediction: I think this team is mentally capable of getting past last week's disaster.  They will.  It's on the road, but I think we've put our road woes behind us, and Fulham should and will take this match 1-0 to the Whites.

White Noise

Barnet appointment former Fulham boss Lawrie Sanchez as boss


By Sportsmail Reporter


Last updated at 7:18 PM on 13th May 2011



Barnet have moved quickly to secure the managerial services of former Fulham boss Lawrie Sanchez on a permanent basis, just days after they secured League football for another season.

Sanchez had acted as consultant for the last four games of the campaign, winning two and drawing one as the Bees avoided relegation against the odds.

Giuliano Grazioli, the former Bees striker, will be his assistant, having managed Barnet in the period Sanchez was consultant.


Not such a dodgy Barnet: Lawrie Sanchez is the new manager of League Two's Barnet

Barnet chairman Tony Kleanthous said: 'I am absolutely delighted. We found the successful combination when we needed it and it is great that we are able to continue that next season. I believe that Lawrie, with Grazioli backing up, is the right man to lead us forward.'

The 51-year-old began his management career at Sligo Rovers and once guided Wycombe to the FA Cup semi-finals.



Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1386871/Barnet-appointment-Fulham-boss-Lawrie-Sanchez-boss.html#ixzz1MJ3gGmGX

White Noise


http://www.cottagersconfidential.com/2011/5/13/2169498/birmingham-city-a


Birmingham City (a)


by Kristian Balkin on May 13, 2011 6:41 PM BST


Fulham fans will be boarding their coaches on Sunday morning for the final time this season, as the penultimate Premier League match, and final away game, kicks off at four o'clock, St. Andrews, Birmingham.

Alex McLeish, the manager whom we must outwit in order to drag three points from what will be a dogged battleground, is now one of many Scots to ply his authoritarian trade in the Premier League; counting the likes of Sir Alex Ferguson and Owen Coyle amongst his countrymen. He, like his compatriots, has done a sterling job in England's 'second city' and, despite relegation in his inaugural season, McLeish has brought many favourable fortunes to the Midlands club; not least the latest coup of the Carling Cup, fought from the almost tepid hands of Arsenal.



However, cup victories aside, Birmingham's Premier League fate still hangs in the balance and, even though the Blues have proven themselves a side more suited to the higher echelons than the Championship, McLeish will be trying to fend off the unwanted 'Second-Season-Syndrome'. City have picked up 1 point from a possible 12 and are yet to win in May. Yet, their home form of late hasn't been too concerning, with fine wins over both Bolton and Sunderland in April.

Fulham, of course, come off the back of a highly disappointing home defeat to Liverpool, which will go a long way to dampen a spirit which has steadily escalated over the latter stages of the season. In fact, morale was so high, that Mark Hughes' men managed only their second away victory of the season against Sunderland at the end of April and did so in emphatic fashion, knocking three in without reply. The Cottagers have scored 8 goals in their last 3 games, but defensive stability has been neglected in the meantime, with a normally tight defence shipping five on Monday evening.

In November, McLeish's side made the Eastern trip to London's Craven Cottage and fought to a respectable 1-1 draw, Dempsey replying to an early Larsson goal for Birmingham. Last year, Fulham were defeated at St. Andrews by a goal to nil, but Hodgson's men exacted revenge with a 2-1 victory on home turf.

The hosts have a mass of injury concerns to worry about, with Scott Dann, Obafemi Martins, James McFadden, Maik Taylor and Enric Valles all out. Zigic remains a doubt for McLeish while both Craig Gardner and Liam Ridgewell are suspended.

Mark Hughes informed fulhamfc.com that Bobby Zamora "didn't complete training on Friday" while "Simon Davies got a kick on his calf" in Monday's Liverpool tie. He remained relatively optimistic, though, that the pair could play a part on Sunday afternoon. Zoltan Gera has returned to full fitness so Damien Duff remains the only noticeable absentee.

Score Prediction: Birmingham 1 - 1 Fulham

Predicted Line-Up: Schwarzer; Salcido, Hangeland, Hughes, Baird; Dempsey, Sidwell, Murphy, Davies; Dembele, Gudjohnsen



White Noise


http://www.setanta.com/ie/Articles/2011/05/13/Preview-Birmingham-v-Fulham-Sun/gnid-94612/


Preview: Birmingham v Fulham (Sun)



by Tony Cuddihy , 13 May 2011   



Craig Gardner and defender Liam Ridgewell are both suspended for Birmingham's Premier League clash against Fulham on Sunday.

Stuart Parnaby and David Murphy will both hope to replace Ridgewell at left-back.

Nikola Zigic is still suffering with groin and hip problems and is unlikely to be fit.

Bobby Zamora and Simon Davies are both doubts for Fulham. Davies was injured during the 5-2 defeat to Liverpool, while Zamora has a sore groin.

Chris Baird looks likely to miss the last two games of the season after deciding not to contest the charge of using an abusive gesture towards referee Lee Mason against Liverpool.
=
Teams

Birmingham (from): Foster, Carr, Johnson, Jiranek, Parnaby, Murphy, Larsson, Ferguson, Bowyer, Jerome, Phillips, Doyle, Hleb, Fahey, Derbyshire, Mutch, Davies, Bentley, Beausejour, Zigic.

Fulham (from): Schwarzer, Hangeland, Senderos, Hughes, Salcido, Etuhu, Davies, Murphy, Sidwell, Greening, Dempsey, Dembele, Zamora, Johnson, Stockdale, Kelly, Gudjohnsen, Kakuta, Baird, Gera

White Noise


http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2011/may/13/squad-sheets-birmingham-fulham?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+theguardian%2Ffootball%2Frss+%28Football%29



Squad sheets: Birmingham City v Fulham


guardian.co.uk, Friday 13 May 2011 17.59


Birmingham's disappointing run of two wins in their last 11 matches, including three defeats in the last four, has left them hovering close to the relegation zone. Playing at home will be an advantage, however, and there is the added motivation for the Blues of winning their 50th league match under Alex McLeish. However, Fulham have looked rejuvenated in the second half of the season, despite the recent hammering to Liverpool, and are aiming to secure a top-10 finish between now and the end of the season. Subhankar Mondal

Venue St Andrew's, Sunday 4pm

Tickets £5-£45 (0844 557 1875)

Last season Birmingham 1 Fulham 0

Referee P Walton

This season's matches 25 Y84, R6, 3.60 cards per game

Odds Birmingham Evens Fulham 12-5 Draw 9-4



Birmingham City v Fulham: Probable starters in bold, contenders in light. Photograph: Graphic Birmingham

Subs from Doyle, Davies, Bentley, Mutch, Murphy, Hleb, Derbyshire, Phillips Doubtful None

Injured Zigic (groin, 22 May), McFadden (fitness, Aug), Dann (hamstring, Aug), Valles (foot, Aug), Taylor (shoulder, Aug)

Suspended Gardner (second of two), Ridgewell (one) Form guide LDLLWD

Disciplinary record Y54 R3

Leading scorer Gardner 7

Fulham
Subs from Stockdale, Etheridge, Senderos, Pantsil, Kelly, Riise, Greening, E Johnson, Dikgacoi, A Johnson, Kakuta, Dembélé Doubtful None

Injured Gera (ankle, 22 May), Halliche (leg, 22 May), Duff (achilles, Aug)

Suspended None

Form guide LWWDLW

Disciplinary record Y46 R0

Leading scorer Dempsey 12

Match pointers
• Birmingham have scored exactly one goal in each of their last three league games against Fulham


• Eight of the last nine goals Fulham have scored against the hosts have come after half-time


• Ben Foster has, on average, been forced into a save every 20 minutes and 18 seconds this season – more than any other goalkeeper


• Moussa Dembélé has made the most fouls in the Premier League so far without being booked – 48


• Fulham have won just two of their last 36 away games

White Noise


http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11095_6930976,00.html



Hughes happy despite limits


Coach prepared to work with Cottagers underneath 'glass ceiling'


By Chris Burton.   


Last Updated: May 13, 2011 8:41pm


Mark Hughes appreciates there is a 'glass ceiling' at Fulham but is keen to take the club as far as he can.

The Welsh coach inherited the reins at Craven Cottage last summer and was charged with the unenviable task of stepping into Roy Hodgson's shoes.

He has, however, fared admirably in his debut campaign with the capital club, with a top-half finish in the Premier League very much on the cards.

That would represent some achievement for Fulham, as they continue to work on a strict budget and with a relatively small squad.

Hughes accepts those limitations are part and parcel of his job and hopes his recent comments regarding his desire to remain with the Cottagers long-term will end speculation regarding his future.

"I get asked invariably every press conference in fairness," said Hughes when pressed again on his personal plans.

."I just thought it was important that people understood and that I needed to clarify my feelings towards the position I hold.

Confidence
"As I have said many, many times before, I really enjoy being here. We have great potential and we're looking to build on what we've achieved this year.

"We want to finish in that top 10 if we can and then we will be able to look back on the season and ahead to next season with real confidence.

"We've got the basis of a good team. I am very clear in how far we can go as a club, it's fair to say there is a glass ceiling for clubs in a similar position, but that does not mean it's not challenging."

Hughes could see his efforts this season rewarded with a place in the 2011/12 Europa League, as Fulham close in on continental qualification courtesy of the Fair Play scheme.

European action would bring extra pressure and added fixture congestion, but they are problems Hughes is willing to face.

"If we get in we will try to progress as far as we can," he said.

"It's not a case of dreading it, we should embrace it, but it just makes it difficult early on. You could argue that both sides balance themselves out."



White Noise


http://www.eatsleepsport.com/fulham/hughes-to-recall-strike-duo-1212432.html




Hughes to recall strike duo



Last Updated: Fri, 13 May 2011 16:51


Bobby Zamora and Andy Johnson should return to the Fulham line-up when Mark Hughes' side tackle Birmingham on Sunday.

Hughes is expected to make changes to the Fulham side beaten 5-2 by Liverpool on Monday night with Zamora and Johnson set to replace Moussa Dembele and Eidur Gudjohnsen, who were ineffactual.

Gael Kakuta has been desperate to get another chance to start but he may again have to settle for a place on the bench.

Winger Damien Duff will miss out after being ruled out for the remainder of the season following a recent Achilles operation.

Zoltan Gera is recovering from an ankle injury

White Noise


http://www.talksport.co.uk/sports-news/football/premier-league/7419/4/hughes-admits-gera-may-have-leave-fulham



Hughes admits Gera may have to leave Fulham


By Andy Williams


Friday, May 13



Mark Hughes admits Zoltan Gera might have to move away from Craven Cottage if he wants a guarantee of first team football.

The Hungary midfielder has been linked with a £1million move to Premier League new boys QPR next season and, although Hughes wants to keep him at Fulham, he cannot guarantee a place in the starting XI for anybody.

Hughes said: "There are conversations that go on but it is clear I would like him to stay. Zoltan is in a position where he can talk to foreign clubs and keep his options open when his contract runs out.

"The problem is I cannot guarantee regular football. I cannot do that for anybody in the squad and maybe he feels like he needs to move elsewhere to get a chance to play on a more regular basis.

"We are going to have more conversations at the end of the season but I would like him to stay."

It could be one out, one in with forward Eidur Gudjohnsen looking to make his loan move from Stoke City a permanent one.

Hughes added: "It has not been finalised yet but we are very close. There is a will on both sides to get it done and I think it makes sense from a football point of view.

"Probably this week there will be further discussions and then we can come to a conclusion where Eidur is a Fulham player. That is obviously what he wants and when there is a will on both sides to do a deal it will get done

White Noise


http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/919204/mark-hughes-knows-limits-at-fulham?cc=5739



Hughes knows limits at Fulham


May 13, 2011



Mark Hughes accepts there is a glass ceiling at clubs like Fulham, but he issued a statement about his future this week because he just wanted people to know how happy he is as manager at Craven Cottage.

"I get asked invariably every press conference in fairness," Hughes said on Friday as he prepared his 10th-placed side for Sunday's trip to Birmingham.

"I just thought it was important that people understood and that I needed to clarify my feelings towards the position I hold. As I have said many, many times before, I really enjoy being here. We have great potential and we're looking to build on what we've achieved this year.

"We want to finish in that top ten if we can and then we will be able to look back on the season and ahead to next season with real confidence.

"We've got the basis of a good team. I am very clear in how far we can go as a club - it's fair to say there is a glass ceiling for clubs in a similar position - but that does not mean it's not challenging."

And the challenges of next season could well include the Europa League again just a year after the side provided thrills galore for the fans en route to the final.

England are set to be awarded a spot under the Fair Play scheme and Fulham, the only side in the Premier League not to have had a player sent off this campaign, are neck and neck with Tottenham. Chelsea currently lead the table, but they are already certain of playing in the Champions League.

Hughes can see pluses and minuses to qualifying. There is the fixture congestion and the fact that they could be in action after just four days of pre-season training, but he added: "If we get in we will try to progress as far as we can.

"It's not a case of dreading it - we should embrace it - but it just makes it difficult early on. You could argue that both sides balance themselves out."

Of more immediate concern is wiping out the memory of Monday's 5-2 hammering at home by Liverpool, their worst defeat of the season.

"That was a real shock to us - we didn't see that coming - but since the turn of the year we have been fantastic and that was an anomaly we put behind us and learn from.

"In terms of motivating the players that performance has made it easier for the last two games."

Fulham finish at home to Arsenal on Sunday week.

"When you have a significant defeat you look at who did well and who didn't," he said. "That happens after every game, whether the result was positive or negative.

"I have a lot of options - there are not many missing through injury."

Bobby Zamora and Simon Davies are doubts, though, and full-back Chris Baird was waiting on Friday afternoon for confirmation he is suspended following his abusive gesture towards referee Lee Mason on Monday.

He did not contest it and is likely to be fined by the club as well.



White Noise


http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/05/13/baird-set-to-be-fined-by-fulham-for-ref-gesture-82029-28689854/



Baird set to be fined by Fulham for ref gesture

By Paul Warburton


May 13 2011



CHRIS Baird's season is almost certainly over after Fulham admitted guilt over the defender's V-sign during the 5-2 defeat to Liverpool on Monday.

Baird's frustration boiled over when he was yellow-carded for a foul on Dirk Kuyt, and showed his displeasure at referee Lee Mason. If guilty, the FA ban rules Baird out of both Sunday's match at Birmingham and the last game against Arsenal.

The Northern Ireland international is likely to be light of pocket with boss Mark Hughes set to add to his player's woes by fining him as well.

The manager said: "We have a policy on dissent, and there may well be sanctions.

"To be fair to Chris, he held his hands up. We won't be appealing any decision, and we'll just have to accept any punishment."

The manager hinted at changes after the Liverpool humbling anyway, with team meetings this week designed to get rid of any lingering misery from Monday.

Hughes added: "We didn't see that (defeat) coming, and I've got some thoughts about the team for Sunday, and with very few injuries at the moment it gives me a lot of options."

Two of them don't appear to be Bobby Zamora or Simon Davies.

The latter has localised internal bleeding on his calf area from the Liverpool game and has not kicked a ball since. Zamora's groin strain saw him limp out of training early today (Friday).

The obvious changes at the back should Baird be ruled out would likely see Aaron Hughes shifting to right-back, with a second start for Philippe Senderos in the centre alongside Brede Hangeland.


Read More http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/05/13/baird-set-to-be-fined-by-fulham-for-ref-gesture-82029-28689854/#ixzz1MJ6KVT6x

White Noise


http://www.talksport.co.uk/magazine/features/2011-05-13/first-ben-foster-then-rob-green-six-more-international-retirements-really-wouldnt-rock-england



First Ben Foster, then Rob Green: six more international retirements that really wouldn't rock england



Could the fad for early international spread to more fringe players?


By talkSPORT magazine,Friday, May 13


With Robert Green set to quit the England set up after fellow keeper and non-starter Ben Foster announced his withdrawal from the international scene days earlier, talkSPORT looks at other players who might drop a similarly laughable bombshell on Fabio Capello's hopes of winning Euro 2012...



FRANKIE FIELDING (NO CAPS, ONE CALL-UP)

With Robert Green and Ben Foster no longer available for selection, it's surely only a matter of time before Frankie Fielding follows their lead and announces his retirement from international football. Derby keeper Fielding has had a distinguished international career, being called up as an unused player for England's 2010 friendly with Hungary, having never played higher than the third tier. That level of action will have taken a heavy toll on 23-year-old Fielding and Capello will be hoping he doesn't quit in order to prolong his Football League career.

Fabio says: "Don't a-retire Frankie!"



Kevin Davies (ONE CAP)

Kevin Davies picked up his first England cap at the ripe old age of 33, coming on as a sub in the 70th minute of England's 0-0 qualifying draw with Montenegro. It's a little known fact that England are unbeaten whenever Davies pulls on the Three Lions shirt, making him the kind of talisman Capello desperately needs to strike fear into the hearts of Spain, Germany and Italy at Euro 2012.

Fabio says: "Don't a-retire Kevin!"



JAY BOTHROYD (ONE CAP)

Jay Bothroyd could be the man to bring on as an impact substitute if England are trailing in a crucial Euro 2012 match. His sole cap came as a 72nd minute substitute with England 2-0 down against France in a friendly, but with Jay on the field the Three Lions came roaring back to lose 2-1. With a record like that, Capello will be pulling out all the stops to prevent Bothroyd announcing his retirement.

Fabio says: "Don't a-retire Jay!"



Gabriel Agbonlahor (THREE CAPS)

With three caps in the past three years, England fans are praying that Aston Villa winger Agbonlahor won't waste his experience by throwing in the towel at international level. Who could forget his last appearance, being substituted after 66 minutes of a Wembley World Cup qualifier with Belarus two years ago?

Fabio says: "Don't a-retire Gabby!"



Bobby Zamora (ONE CAP)

Fulham forward Bobby has the honour of being the only player ever to represent England at senior level with a surname that begins with the letter Z. His 20-minute run out in England's 2-1 friendly win against Hungary in 2010 erased memories of the Three Lions' humiliating 6-3 Wembley battering at the hands of Hungary's Magical Magyars in 1953. If Zamora quits England duty, it'll be 45 years of hurt for England sure.

Fabio says: "Don't a-retire Bobby!"



Carlton Cole (SEVEN CAPS)

England haven't had a prolific goalscorer since Michael Owen was banging them in, so the country will be collectively holding its breath and praying that Carlton Cole sticks around. The West Ham striker has yet to score for England in seven games, making it imperative that he gets as many matches as possible to break that duck. About 50 caps should be enough.

Fabio says: "You can a-retire Carlton, no problemo."


White Noise

Birmingham v FULHAM: Bobby Zamora and Simon Davies look doubtful


By Sportsmail Reporter


Last updated at 3:10 PM on 13th May 2011


Fulham have doubts over Bobby Zamora and Simon Davies for Sunday's Barclays Premier League match at Birmingham.

Davies has not trained since being kicked on the calf in Monday's 5-2 home defeat by Liverpool, while Zamora did not complete training on Friday because of soreness in his groin.


Impact: Zamora (right) looked lively after coming off the bench against Liverpool

Full-back Chris Baird looks like missing the last two games of the season after deciding not to contest the charge of using an abusive gesture towards referee Lee Mason in the Liverpool match.

Provisional squad: Schwarzer, Hangeland, Senderos, Hughes, Salcido, Etuhu, Davies, Murphy, Sidwell, Greening, Dempsey, Dembele, Zamora, Johnson, Stockdale, Kelly, Gudjohnsen, Kakuta, Baird, Gera.



Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1386770/Birmingham-v-FULHAM-Bobby-Zamora-Simon-Davies-look-doubtful.html#ixzz1MJ7IulBA


White Noise


http://www.birminghammail.net/birmingham-sport/birmingham-city-fc/birmingham-city-fc-news/2011/05/13/birmingham-city-v-fulham-colin-tattum-s-pre-match-notes-97319-28689250/



Birmingham City v Fulham (Sunday, kick off 4pm): Colin Tattum's pre-match notes


May 13 2011


WHO'S HOT: Ben Foster was at the top of his game at Newcastle United last week. England's loss remains Blues' gain.

WHO'S NOT: Liam Ridgewell's handball on the line at St James' Park means he is suspended for Blues' crunch fixture, joining Craig Gardner on the banned list.

LAST FIVE GAMES

BLUES WLLDL

FULHAM LDWWL

BLUES (from): Foster, Carr, Parnaby, Murphy, Johnson, Davies, Jiranek, Larsson, Mutch, Fahey, Bowyer, Ferguson, Beausejour, Bentley, Jerome, Phillips, Derbyshire, Hleb, Doyle. Injured: Zigic (groin/hip), Martins (leg), McFadden (knee), Dann (hamstring), Valles (foot), Taylor (shoulder). Suspended: Gardner, Ridgewell.

THE OPPOSITION: Bobby Zamora is expected to start after the 5-2 home battering by Liverpool and summer target Moussa Dembele will have a fitness test for the Cottagers, who have lost two and drawn one of their last three visits to St Andrew's.

Referee: P Walton (Northants).

FORECAST: Colin Tattum Blues win.


Read More http://www.birminghammail.net/birmingham-sport/birmingham-city-fc/birmingham-city-fc-news/2011/05/13/birmingham-city-v-fulham-colin-tattum-s-pre-match-notes-97319-28689250/#ixzz1MJ7eo18d

White Noise


http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/13364707.stm



Birmingham    v    Fulham


Barclays Premier LeagueVenue: St Andrew'sDate: Sunday, 15 May

Kick-off: 1600 BSTCoverage: Watch highlights on Match of the Day 2; listen on BBC Radio 5 live and local radio; text commentary on BBC Sport website and mobiles


Sunday, 15 May 2011
Barclays Premier League
Home Team Score Away Team Time
Birmingham v  Fulham 16:00

   
TEAM NEWS

Birmingham are without the suspended Graig Gardner and Liam Ridgewell, and Nikola Zigic is not expected to overcome a hip problem in time to play.

Defender Scott Dann and forwards Obafemi Martins and James McFadden are among those who remain sidelined.

Fulham pair Bobby Zamora and Simon Davies are struggling with respective groin and calf problems.

Chris Baird will miss the last two games of the season through suspension.

Birmingham

Suspended: Gardner & Ridgewell (one match) Doubtful: Zigic (hip)

Injured: Dann (hamstring), Martins (groin), McFadden (knee), Taylor (shoulder), Valles (foot)

Fulham

Suspended: Baird (two matches)

Doubtful: Davies (calf), Gera (ankle), Zamora (groin)

Injured: Duff (Achilles), Halliche (unspecified)

MATCH PREVIEW BY MOTD COMMENTATOR STEVE BOWER

  Birmingham would have hoped to have been able to relax ahead of their penultimate game of the season but a run of just one point from the last 12 has left the League Cup winners still looking nervously over their shoulder.

There's no doubt that the excursions of their first major trophy in 48 years coupled with a run to the quarter finals of the FA Cup has taken its toll. Since their memorable day at Wembley they've managed just two victories from 10 games.

Continue reading the main story
Mark Hughes has now been able to stamp his own authority on the team
I watched them at Newcastle last week where the game changed on the sending off of Liam Ridgewell and subsequent penalty. They weren't really a goal threat and it's easy to see why they are the joint lowest scorers in the league. There were some tired legs at St James' Park and those who are available will have to dig deep to try and secure the point they need for safety.

Fulham's second half of the season has been excellent and it's clear that Mark Hughes has now been able to stamp his own authority on the team. No-one saw Monday's heavy defeat to Liverpool coming, particularly as they have looked well organised and strong defensively.

There's always going to be speculation about Hughes with his track record, but I'm sure Fulham fans will have been pleased by his public commitment to the club this week and will look forward to next season with real optimism.

MATCH FACTS

Head-to-head

•Birmingham have won 31 and Fulham 25 of the 83 previous matches between these clubs.
•Fulham have lost on only two of the club's last nine trips to St Andrew's.
•They have conceded one goal on each of their last four visits.
Birmingham

•Birmingham have lost three of their last four matches.
•Since lifting the Carling Cup at the end of February, they have won only two of their 10 subsequent league games.
•A win for the Blues would be their 50th league victory under manager Alex McLeish.
Fulham

•Fulham have won four out of their last eight matches.
•Prior to Monday's 5-2 thrashing by Liverpool, Fulham had kept clean sheets in three of their previous five games.
•The next goal Fulham let in will be their 500th conceded in the Premier League.
•Bobby Zamora is in line for his 350th career league appearance.
LEADING GOALSCORERS
  Birmingham

Gardner: 9 goals (7 league); Zigic: 8 goals (5 league)

Fulham

Dempsey: 13 goals (12 league); Zamora: 6 goals (4 league)

MATCH OFFICIALS

Referee: Peter Walton

Assistant referees: Patrick Keane & Andy Madley

Fourth official: Mark Halsey

LAST LEAGUE MATCH LINE-UPS

Birmingham (L1-2 v Newcastle, a): Foster; Carr, Jiranek, Johnson, Ridgewell, Larsson, Ferguson, Fahey (Derbyshire 77), Bowyer, Beausejour, Jerome. Subs not used: Doyle, Phillips, Bentley, Parnaby, Hleb, Davies.

Fulham (L2-5 v Liverpool, h): Schwarzer; Hughes, Baird, Hangeland, Salcido, Davies (Zamora 46), Murphy, Sidwell, Dembele (Kakuta 76), Gudjohnsen (Johnson 67), Dempsey. Subs not used: Stockdale, Senderos, Etuhu, Greening.