Tuesday Fulham Stuff (09/08/11)...

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham Fans' Season Preview: Steady Growth And A Shot At Glory

With the jolly Dutchman Martin Jol in the dug out and Bobby Zamora returning to the pitch steady improvement and a decent cup run will do for this Fulham fan.


Bobby Zamora reminding a youth team player the words 'Mark Hughes'
are no longer welcome at Craven Cottage.

Fulham fans would have viewed the departure of ex-Chelsea man Mark Hughes with a rye smile. He never really fitted in at Craven Cottage and 'Mark Hughes' Black and White Army'  didn't flow naturally from The Hammersmith End. Mo' Fayed's patience with a man who could have been sacked after a home defeat to West Ham sent us into the bottom three on Boxing Day 2010 curdled into a relationship breakdown that has at least seen the arrival of Martin Jol. Early season Europa games have confirmed that this loveable bear of a man  – who still comes across like an under cover Dutch narco' cop - should continue promoting a similarly expansive style of football that had begun to seep through under Hughes.

Last season blossomed into something quite promising with Fulham playing some lovely football at times, particularly in a 4-0 thrashing of Tottenham in the FA Cup.  Convincing away wins at Stoke, Sunderland and Birmingham hinted that the woeful travel sickness that has blighted our stay in the top flight may be abating and Bobby Zamora recovered from a nasty early season injury to terrorise defences with renewed vigour. Moussa Dembele showed flashes of brilliance but must do it every week to achieve the inevitable bid from Harry Redknapp.

The club could yet enjoy another momentous season of Thursday nights on Channel 5 but a repeat of the Hodgson inspired heroics of 2009 will be hard to pull off.
After waltzing passed the fodder of the Europa League's early qualifying rounds, Fulham drew the short straw in the final pre-group stage play-off lottery by pulling the Ukrainians FC Dnitro out of the bag.  But our recent pedigree in the competition should see us through and who knows, the club could yet enjoy another momentous season of Thursday nights on Channel 5 but a repeat of the Hodgson inspired heroics of 2009 will be hard to pull off.

In line with a minimal transfer budget that may or may not have prompted the flouncing out of Mr Hughes, Fulham have opted for a long-term transfer policy, purchasing two of the better players from the recent Euro-U21 Champions, snaffling the tasty looking Pajtim Kasami from Palermo and Czech starlet Marcel Gecov from Slovan Liberec.  Premier League pedigree comes in the shape of John Arne Riise from Roma.

A new right back is essential following the departure of self styled fan's favourite John Paintsill and a front line of the immense Bobby Zamora, Andy Johnson (who's looked sharp in pre-season following an injury ravaged couple of years) and the inconsistent Moussa Dembele could do with some support too.

It's high time Fulham reached the latter stages, nay a final of a major cup competition and this combined with a top ten finish, a Europa League run and wins over Walham Green and Willseden Rovers would do very nicely indeed.

COYW!



http://www.sabotagetimes.com/football-sport/fulham-fans'-season-preview-steady-growth-and-a-shot-at-glory/?

[WhiteJC]

 
England v Holland match scrapped as riots continue to wreck sporting schedule

England's friendly with Holland has been called off after the shocking riots across London.

Wembley was due to host the match on Wednesday night but it has now been axed by police.

The decision was made after talks between the police and the FA on Tuesday morning, with rioting in nearby Harlesden and Brent Cross.


Destruction: London remains in the grip of riots

They agreed that they do not have the resources to deal with a massive Wembley crowd for the game.

More than 70,000 tickets were sold for the game, but allowing hoardes of football fans to gather in an area already scarred by riots posed significant security risks.

The trouble is putting a massive strain on the Metropolitan Police.

An FA statement read: 'It is with regret that tomorrow's  international fixture with Holland at Wembley has been called off.'

Holland's players were due to fly from Amsterdam airport at 10am on Tuesday but they have stayed in their homeland.
A spokeswoman for the Dutch said: 'We will remain in the Netherlands. It's a shame.'

England will train together today before heading back to their clubs.

West Ham, Crystal Palace and Charlton postponed the League Cup ties they were due to host on Tuesday against Aldershot, Crawley and Reading respectively on police advice as the disorder spread.

Bristol City's tie with Swindon at Ashton Gate has also been postponed following trouble in the city overnight.

Chairman Colin Sexstone said: 'It's disappointing but we totally understand the reasons given by the police. Clearly the most important factor is people's safety and these are exceptional circumstances the police are dealing with.'


Copycat violence: Rioters and looters hit Birmingham shops on Monday


Ablaze: The riots have led to several football matches being cancelled

England's cricketers, who are due to begin the third Test against India at Edgbaston on Wednesday morning, were locked in their Birmingham city centre hotel as a safety precaution as trouble flared on the streets outside on Tuesday.

A West Midlands police spokesman said at this stage there is no reason to suggest the Test will not go ahead.

England's players found themselves as spectators — and Twitter commentators — as trouble began around their Birmingham hotel.

Kevin Pietersen posted a photograph on his Twitter account showing lines of police protecting a building and said: 'they have just locked our hotel in Birmingham. Riots just started here.. Insane!!'

Bowler Tim Bresnan said on his Twitter account: 'Just seen the rioters in Birmingham fleeing down the main street followed by a load of police in the full get up. What's going on?'

All-rounder Stuart Broad added on Twitter: 'Police vans all around Birmingham where we are right now.'


Warm up: England are preparing for the third Test with India at Edgbaston

The India team, who were attending a function in Birmingham City Hall, were closer to the troubles and also returned hastily to their base in the Marriott hotel at the end of  Broad Street.

England's players were not under any sort of curfew earlier in the evening, and several had gone out to meet friends in restaurants or bars near to their Hyatt Regency hotel, close to the Broad Street area of England's second city.

But, at the first signs of trouble, the team's full-time security advisor, Reg Dickason, got in touch with them and advised them to return to the hotel.

Captain Andrew Strauss and  vice-captain Alastair Cook were at a barbecue at Jonathan Trott's house in the Birmingham suburbs but went back to the hotel on Dickason's advice on hearing of the problems.


Hands up: A riot officer stands in front of a burning car in Hackney

By 9.30pm all the players were back in the hotel, which had locked its doors and posted security guards in case of problems.

If the troubles don't die down there will be more issues for the police in deciding whether they have the resources to let club football matches go ahead this week.

Stevenage are both due to play at home in the League Cup on Tuesday, and Saturday could pose even bigger problems.

In the Premier League, Fulham Tottenham and QPR are hosting games, while from the Football League, Palace, Millwall, Leyton Orient and Barnet are due to play home matches.

England striker Wayne Rooney pleaded for the trouble to stop.

He wrote on Twitter: 'These riots are nuts why would people do this to there [sic] own country. Own city. This is embarrassing for our country. Stop please.'


Doubt: Fabio Capello's England are due to play Holland on Wednesday

Meanwhile, the continued trouble should not affect preparations for next summer's Olympics and even offers the opportunity for sport to heal some of the wounds caused by the current violence, according to the BOA's Director of Communications Darryl Seibel.

'It makes an Olympic Games and a Paralympic Games all the more important. We need a reason to come together,' Seibel told Sky Sports News.

'What better city to do it in than London. It is the only city to be honoured with the Olympic Games on three occasions.'

Seibel also expressed confidence in the ability of the authorities to make sure next summer's Olympics were safe.

He added: 'We know the level of work and we know the level of planning that has gone into it.

'This is a reflection of the world we live in today. This is not a reflection of London, this is a reflection of the world we live in today.'

Asked if he was aware of any damage caused to Olympic venues he said: 'I'm not aware of it, no.'




Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/article-2024015/London-riots-England-v-Holland-off.html#ixzz1UWYYxxLS

[WhiteJC]

 
Jol closes in on Shrimpers teen

Southend United's highly-rated teenage starlet Lyle Della-Verde is being heavily linked with a move to Fulham.
The 16-year-old, who can operate on the left wing or in attack, alerted top flight clubs to his abilities during the Shrimpers' march to the fifth round of the FA Youth Cup last term, while he also scored against both Wolves and Norwich City in the recent Cars4All Trophy at Roots Hall.

Boss Paul Sturrock has handed Della-Verde a place on the first-team bench on three occasions with the view to handing him a professional contract.

But Cottagers chief Martin Jol is set to offer the youngster a deal at Craven Cottage ahead of Wolves, who have also been linked with a bid.



http://www.eatsleepsport.com/fulham/jol-closes-in-on-shrimpers-teen-1256484.html?#.TkEEt3PHo98

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham fight off Wolves in race to sign Shrimpers youth

Premiership clubs Fulham and Wolverhampton Wanderers have expressed an interest in signing Southend United's exciting youngster Lyle Della-Verde.


Lyle Della-Verde; another Shrimpers starlet set to move

It would be blow but not surprising if the Shrimpers exciting teen winger Lyle Della-Verde, was to move before the club could get his signature on to a first professional contract.

And it's been reported that Premiership side Fulham lead another top tier side in Wolves to get the youngster to sign a deal away from south-east Essex.

Presently signed only on a Shimpers scholarship he has worked with Head of Youth Ricky Duncan since being released by Tottenham Hotspur and joining Southend United's Centre of Excellence as a 12-year-old after being spotted at an open trial.

Della-Verde certainly left his mark with several strong displays in the young Shrimpers march to the fifth round of the FA Youth Cup last season, while he also scored against both Wolves and Norwich City in the recent Cars4All Trophy at Roots Hall which the under-18 side won brilliantly.

Blues boss Paul Sturrock has handed Della-Verde a place on the first-team bench on three occasions with the view to handing him a pro contract but it looks as if Cottagers manager Martin Jol is going to jump ahead of the queue
If he leaves Lyle will join Medi Abalimba, Femi Orenuga, Dominic Iorfa and Michael Ngoo on all leaving the youth ranks to try their luck at a higher level.



http://www.southendunited-mad.co.uk/feat/edb1/fulham_fight_off_wolves_in_race_to_sign_shrimpers_youth_692220/index.shtml?

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham Reviews in the post

After a bit of a delay caused by various factors, all Fulham Reviews are in the post.

I'm around at home for the next couple of days so all further orders will be sent quite quickly.   www.godsfoot.com to order.

Thanks!



http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2011/08/09/fulham-reviews-in-the-post/?

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham Season Preview: Martin Jol's Arrival has Optimism Running High

The dust had barely settled on the 2010-11 Premier League season when Mark Hughes upped and left Fulham. His reasons for leaving are still unclear – it was not to walk into another job, as was initially thought – but the Craven Cottage club have done well in moving on so quickly.

Martin Jol was appointed within days and if anything, their six Europa League performances prior to the start of the Premier League suggest they are in for a more successful season than last term. Fulham started agonisingly slowly last season and were at one stage in the bottom three.

But there is little to suggest this will be the case this season. Under Jol they have evolved into a more attractive, more attacking version of Hughes's blueprint, aided by the fact that Andy Johnson is getting back to his best.

They have also managed to hang onto their brightest stars, namely the talented playmaker Mousa Dembele, winger-cum attacking midfield man Clint Dempsey and defender Brede Hangeland. Expect an enjoyable ride at Craven Cottage.

THE NEW (AND OLD) MEN:
Ins: Patjim Kasami (Palermo) undisclosed, Marcel Gecov (Slovan Liberec) undisclosed, John Arne Riise (Roma) undisclosed, Csaba Somogyi (unattached)
Outs: David stockdale (Ipswich) loan, Jonathan Greening (Nottingham forest) undisclosed, Kagisho Dikgacoi (Crystal Palace) undisclosed

Summary: A shrewd summer's buying from Jol. Kasami is young and unproven in this league, but his brief Europa League appearances suggest he is quick and has an eye for goal. Arne Riise – whose brother is already at Craven Cottage – fits perfectly with Jol's attacking style.

THE MAIN MEN:
Goalkeepers: Mark Schwarzer is still number one and England hopeful David Stockdale has realised as much and moved to Ipswich on a season-long loan. Schwarzer may be long in te tooth but he is still a very good goalkeeper.

Defence: The central partnership of Aaron Hughes and Hangeland is still together. John Arne Riise adds pace down the right and Matthew Briggs is maturing into a worthy rival to Carlos Salcido for the other flank.

Midfield: Here's where Jol has a wealth of talent, from the attacking pair of Dempsey and Dembele to the likes of Steve Sidwell and captain Danny Murphy. Dickson Etuhu may be lucky to get a regular start.

Attack: Bobby Zamora and Johnson are nearing their best, underlined by the interest shown in the pair from rival clubs. If one or both are injured, Dembele or Dempsey have shown they can deputise.

The Boss: The often sardonic, laid-back Jol could not be more pleased to be back in the Premier League. And his management style and attacking philosophy suit Fulham down to the ground.

THE GAMES:
Start with: Aston Villa, home, 13 August. This will be the test as to whether Jol's men have had enough preparation. They will be pleased they are starting at home.

End with: Tottenham, away, 13 May. If things go according to plan Fulham should be targeting a top eight place in the Premier League – and who is to say that after a marathon 23 games, they won't have a second Europa League final on the horizon?

The big one in between: Chelsea, away 26 December. They came close to notching a historic win in the corresponding fixture against their near neighbours last season – in the game before Chelsea's mid-season slump. How they'd love to spark another one.

THE FANS:
Most likely to say: "Hands off Hangeland and Dembele, they're ours."

Least likely to say: "The Europa League is a waste of time."

Expectation rating: *** Jol's bright start in European competition has fans looking optimistically at the Premier Leauge campaign and the belief is high that he can build on what Hughes started.

Reality check: ** In their heart of hearts, supporters know Fulham are not going to win the league – and anywhere within the top ten will be considered a success.

THE NUMBERS:
Title odds: 5000-1
Relegation odds: 10-1
FanHouse prediction: 11th

Last season's form:
League: 8th
FA Cup: Fifth round
League Cup: Second round
Top league scorers: Dempsey 12, Hangeland 6, Zamora 5
Discipline: Yellow 52, Red 1



http://www.fanhouse.co.uk/2011/08/09/fulham-season-preview-martin-jols-arrival-has-optimism-running/?

[WhiteJC]

 
Cottagers hitman set for Villa start

Martin Jol is confident that Bobby Zamora will be fit for Fulham's Premier League opener against Aston Villa, despite his broken hand.

The Cottagers chief made the claim despite England coach Fabio Capello opting not to call up the 30-year-old striker to his squad for Wednesday's international friendly against the Netherlands at Wembley which has now been called off due to the riots in London.

Zamora suffered the injury during Europa League action at the end of July and, while Capello felt it would hamper his performance, Jol has no such concerns.

Asked about Zamora's hand, Jol told Sky Sports News: "It is good.

"It was a disappointment for him to drop out of the squad but Fabio Capello told me as well that he was restricted.
"He could see that he had a different view but that is all in the business."



http://www.clubcall.com/fulham/cottagers-hitman-set-for-villa-start-1256497.html?

[WhiteJC]

 
Dempsey Ready

After enjoying another highly successful campaign at the Cottage last season, followed by a summer of football with the USA, Clint Dempsey once again had to make do with the shortest of breaks before returning to Fulham.

However, rather than bemoaning his packed schedule as he prepares for the 2011/12 campaign, Dempsey believes that by retaining his fitness all year round, with a brief summer break, he is well equipped to deal with the stresses and strains placed upon his body.

"It is what it is," said Dempsey of his 24-day break following another demanding domestic and international campaign. "Your career is short so you've got to make the most of it. You can't really take too long off because when you take too long off it's difficult to come back, and you start picking up injuries.

"It's almost better to stay fit almost all year round, you do need a bit of a break and I feel like I got enough of a break and I'm ready to put in a good season."

Dempsey and company will kick-off the 2011/12 Barclays Premier League season against Aston Villa at the Cottage this weekend and the US international is happy with his current fitness levels after competing in the win over RNK Split in the UEFA Europa League last week.

"It was a good win last week," said Dempsey. "I thought we had good movement in the first-half, good possession and we were creating chances. In the second-half they pressed the game and it was difficult to play but we grinded out the result.

"The opposition [RNK Split] were a quality side; we played good football and just needed to do more in the second-half. At the end of the day, we were winning 2-0 and they had to throw caution to the wind while we were trying to lock it up and keep the clean sheet.

"For me it was good to get 80 minutes and try to get my fitness up – I'm still not 100% there, that's only going to come with time. For my first game back, I felt pretty good.

"I thought I was effective, especially in the first-half. I didn't get on the ball as much as I would have liked in the second-half and I think that had a little to do with fatigue. But that's the fitness you've got to get, when it gets tough you've got to keep pushing through that. It's certainly helped my fitness for the next game and for the first game back, I felt good."

Ticket availability is now limited for Martin Jol's first Barclays Premier League match in charge at Craven Cottage. Don't miss the opening match of the 2011/12 Barclays Premier League season against Aston Villa - secure your tickets today.



Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/August/DempseyReady.aspx?#ixzz1UX3CgXqx

[WhiteJC]

 
Pre-season Chelsea Chat: Fulham

Carrying on with the pre-season chat, TheChelseaBlog speaks to Russell, former editor of Fulham's Cottager's Confidential:

TheChelseaBlog: So, a new season awaits – what are you hoping to get from it?
Russell: I am looking to see if Fulham can actually build on what they accomplished last season. We ended 8th, but if it wasn't for some key injuries, are positioning might have been a little higher.It will be tough, because we are in Europe again with a smaller squad.   I am also looking to see how the club reacts to playing for another new manager. He has stated he wants to play more of an eye catching open style of play. I will be curious to see how Fulham play this season.

TCB: What do you realistically expect?
R: Realistically I am hoping for top 10, and a good run in the Europa League. That would make me happy.

TCB: Do you think the transfer window has been kind to you?
R: So far I think Jol has bought in some young promising players. Fulham really need to transition in that direction, because overall we have an older squad. He also brought in John Arne Riise who is an upgrade at left back or wherever he is playing. So far so good in the transfer window.

TCB: Is there anyone you'd give your right arm to bring in?
R: It would be Neymar, but that would never happen. I think he is the next superstar in football. Chelsea hopefully will get him someday.

TCB: Who are your most important players?
R: Fulham's most important players would be Danny Murphy, Brede Hangeland, and Bobby Zamora. Murphy is still the rock in the middle of the field, and his presence is still very important to Fulham. Hangeland is the main man at the back. There are not many centre backs better than Brede. He is very important as well to Fulham. However, Zamora is the most important player for the team. His leadership and presence is so huge on and off the pitch. Fulham struggled badly without him last season when he was out.

TCB: What about opposition players? Which PL player worries you most?
R: Nani and David Silva are two players that last year Fulham struggled the most with.

TCB: How do you think your manager stands up against the rest?
R: I think our manager has the background to be a top manager again in the EPL. I can't find a Spurs fan that can say a bad word about Martin Jol.

TCB: And your supporters – can they give the opposition a run for their money?
R: I think our fans are tremendous, and they are a huge factor in why Craven Cottage is a hard place for a visiting team to come in, and get a victory.

TCB: Where do you think you'll finish this season?
R: I think we will finish once again in the top 10.

TCB: Any predictions for the top four?
R: I am going for the major upset here.The team I am predicting to win has made many changes that I think are going to pay off huge. I am predicting Liverpool to win it followed by Chelsea, Manchester United, and Manchester City.

TCB: Brilliant as ever Russell.....you even placed us second!




http://thechelseablog.org/2011/08/09/pre-season-chelsea-chat-fulham/?

[WhiteJC]

 
PREMIER LEAGUE PREVIEW AND PREDICTIONS: CHELSEA, EVERTON, FULHAM AND LIVERPOOL ASSESSED

FULHAM
Strengths: Defenders Brede Hangeland and Aaron Hughes are an extremely important part of the team but Damien Duff, Clint Dempsey, Moussa Dembele and skipper Danny Murphy are a dangerous foursome when going forward and can be expected to flourish under Martin Jol. In addition, the club's competitive campaign began earlier than others thanks to their Europa League commitments, which could see them starting the season that little bit sharper than their rivals.

Weaknesses: That aforementioned strength could also prove to be a weakness when considering the depth of the squad and that the season does not finish until 13 May 2012. Fulham's players are also having to adapt to their third manager in three seasons and, while Martin Jol did a decent enough job at Spurs during his previous stint in the Premier League, it can take time for a new man to implement his way of doing things, as Mark Hughes demonstrated last season.

One to watch: The arrival of John Arne Riise may limit the number of appearances Matthew Briggs will make, but the 20-year-old is a highly regarded by Martin Jol and has already scored this season. The defender nabbed himself a wonderful goal against Crusaders in the Europa League second round qualifier in July and has represented England at Under-16, 17, 19 and 20 levels.

Key man: American Clint Dempsey is consistently good and arguably one of the best attacking midfielders in the league. With 12 goals last season, Dempsey's contribution was an important part of another good season for the Cottagers and he often goes unnoticed. Which can only be a good thing for Fulham.

Big signing: After three years at Roma, left back John Arne Riise has moved back to the Premier League where he previously starred for Liverpool. The Norwegian packs a punch with his shooting and his experience should benefit Fulham's defence.

Fact: Captain Danny Murphy completed 2329 passes last season, the highest number in the league.

Odds to win the Premier League: 3000/1 (Ladbrokes).

talkSPORT Magazine prediction: 11th place.



http://www.talksport.co.uk/magazine/features/2011-08-09/premier-league-preview-and-predictions-chelsea-everton-fulham-and-liverpool-assessed?

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham boss plays down Zamora fears

MARTIN Jol insists Bobby Zamora is fit for Fulham's Premier League opener with Aston Villa at the weekend.

The former Spurs frontman broke his hand at the end of last month and was left out of the England squad for this week's friendly with Holland, which has since been postponed due to the rioting in London.

But Whites boss Jol says the injury won't stop his star striker lining up against Alex McLeish's men at Craven Cottage.

Asked about Zamora's injury, he said: "It is good.

"It was a disappointment for him to drop out of the squad but Fabio Capello told me as well that he was restricted.

"He could see that he had a different view but that is all in the business."



Read More http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/08/09/fulham-boss-plays-down-zamora-fears-82029-29204888/?#ixzz1UX4GPOMY

[WhiteJC]

 
Junior Membership 2011/12

Become a Junior Member today and receive a number of fantastic benefits for just £10!

Fulham FC Junior Membership is exclusive for all fans under the age of 16 who get the opportunity to benefit from the cheapest tickets going at Craven Cottage alongside many more fantastic offers.

Not only will you receive exclusive £5 discounts on match day tickets for at least four B and C grade games*, and an exclusive Membership pack - you'll also receive a retail voucher worth £10 off your first in-store purchase of £50 or more.  What's more, Junior Members will also be entitled to a 10% discount on soccer courses.

Junior Membership 2011/12

If this wasn't enough you could even have a chance to be invited to the Junior Members' Christmas party, where lots of surprises will be in store for you!

If you have dreamed of becoming a ball boy/girl at the Cottage, then Junior Membership is the way forward. You will gain exclusive entry to the ballot which is reserved for Season Ticket Holders and Members only, making Junior Membership that extra bit special!

If you have any questions about becoming a Fulham FC Junior Member, ask a parent or guardian to phone 0843 208 1234 (option 2) for more information or check out www.fulhamfc.com/members



Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/August/JuniorMembership201112.aspx?#ixzz1UX7gJlKX