Friday Fulham Stuff (09/09/11)...

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Advantage Members

Membership Update 2011/12
There has never been a better time to become a member of Fulham Football Club, with the Barclays Premier League season well underway and another European tour in full swing, Members can receive their match ticket discount for two matches already this season as well as access to some very exciting Fulham home fixtures.

On sale to Members today

Fulham v Blackburn Sunday 11th September 2011

The Club's next Barclays Premier League fixture, taking place on Sunday, is now on sale to members but be sure to act fast and buy today for the best available seats.

Fulham v FC Twente Thursday 15th September 2011

This match is now on sale to all Fulham members who will also receive 6 Loyalty Points for attending this exciting evening European fixture at Craven Cottage.

Fulham v Manchester City Sunday 18th September 2011

Another top flight encounter at Craven Cottage is on sale now to Fulham members but act fast, this match is selling fast.



Join Fulham Members' Club today

 
Exclusive Ticketing Access Fulham v. Tottenham Sunday 6th November 2011

With tickets currently only available to Season Ticket Holders and Members now is the time to upgrade to a Membership today.  Make sure you get the best seats available and don't miss out on this highly anticipated match!

On sale to Members Wednesday 14th September 2011

Fulham v Everton Sunday 23rd October



Fulham have won 9 of 11 matches against Everton at Craven Cottage, the odds are in favour of the Whites as this promises to be an exciting encounter.

Fulham v. Queens Park Rangers Sunday 2nd November 2011

With tickets only being sold Season Ticket Holders and Members now is the time to upgrade to Membership to ensure you get the best seats available and don't miss on the newest top flight London Derby

If that wasn't enough, we are offering all Fulham Members a chance to receive a £5 discount on their match ticket for both Everton and QPR making for a saving of £10 off their match tickets if they attend both matches.

Join Fulham Members' Club today

To make sure you're at Craven Cottage to cheer the lads along you need to join Fulham Members' Club now. So don't delay and sign up today.



Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/September/201112Membershipisnowonsale.aspx?#ixzz1XQnF7fMG

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Rodgers confident Swansea signings will be approved

Swansea manager Brendan Rodgers remains confident that he will receive international clearance to complete the signings of defenders Darnel Situ and Rafik Halliche.

A £250,000 deal was agreed for Situ to join from Lens on transfer deadline day, while Halliche is set to seal a loan move from Fulham.

Swansea also re-signed Federico Bessone after his release from Leeds, but while the Argentinian's deal has been cleared by FIFA, making him available for Saturday's Premier League trip to Arsenal, the waiting over Situ and Halliche continues.

While Rodgers admits he is frustrated by the red tape that has delayed the deals, particularly given the injury absence of defenders Alan Tate (broken leg) and Garry Monk (foot), he is confident the necessary clearance will soon be received.

"It's very frustrating," Rodgers said. "The bigger picture is we would be very vulnerable if they don't go through. I have a number of players who are versatile, but it would not be ideal if we lose these deals.

"But from everything I hear it should go through, and that should be sooner rather than later. Hopefully we will get it soon. Obviously the Premier League are fighting our corner and it should be fine.

"I get the reports from the club and from our side everything was done correctly, it was just something towards the end concerning the timing of when it's gone in, but in terms of how long I don't know and that's the honest answer. I am sure I will get another update later on.

"Darnel is in the building and training. He is here and I have spoken to him but I haven't spoken to anyone else as yet because the deal has not gone through and he (Halliche) is still a Fulham player.''

Rodgers revealed that skipper Monk is again set to miss out against the Gunners with his ongoing foot problem, while Craig Beattie has an ankle injury and is also unavailable.




http://www.espn.co.uk/football/sport/story/110170.html?CMP=OTC-RSS

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Commerce



In my deluded mind I'm taking this to mean that they weren't expecting much but that we're doing okay.  Or not, it could just be what happens.  That's probably it.  Anyway, have you got yours yet?

Meanwhile – and please forgive this unsavoury aspect of Craven Cottage Newsround but Hade's maternity money is about to run out and we're skint – has anyone not got a Fulham Review yet?   www.godsfoot.com to order!  You'll love it.




http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2011/09/08/commerce-3/?

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Firing Line: Steve's slippery slope - Blackburn boss Kean under pressure after poor start

With the ridiculously ill-timed international 'break' out of the way, Premier League football marks its return this weekend - joined by the Firing Line.

Blackburn boss Steve Kean is our favourite for the axe after a pointless start to the season sees only defensively challenged Tottenham sit below them after the first three games.


Losing control? Steve Kean's Blackburn have lost their first three games

After a summer of chicken adverts and early season defeats, Kean will hope his late summer signings can help turn around Rovers' bad start.
Meanwhile our first target of the season, Neil Warnock has shaken off his terrible opening day of the season by bringing in a host of new signings under the new owners at QPR. If the club are going to be one thing this season, it's not short of players.
Each week we bring you our latest chart of the managers under pressure, and those on Easy Street. Here's Sportsmail's sack-race rankings - otherwise known as the Firing Line.

No 1: Steve Kean - Blackburn Rovers

Desperately unlucky to lose against Everton last time out but in a results driven business it's now three defeats in three games for Kean. After a struggle to beat relegation last season he remains under pressure. Next up is a trip to Fulham on Sunday. UP ONE

No 2: Steve Bruce - Sunderland

It was a busy summer for Bruce who spent £30million and brought 11 new players into the club. Unfortunately his side have not made the best of starts, scoring just one goal as well as losing to bitter rivals Newcastle and drawing at Swansea. Must do better. UP ONE

No 3: Harry Redknapp - Tottenham Hotspur

Easily the most testing time of Redknapp's reign and that includes taking over Spurs when were bottom with two points in October 2008. Juande Ramos lasted 54 games as manager of Tottenham, Redknapp is just one win better off in his last 54 matches. UP FOUR

No 4: Alex McLeish - Aston Villa

The jury (fans) is still out on whether he is the right man despite an undefeated start. It's not exactly 'total football' being served up and supporters may not take as quickly to a manager who favours substance over style. Everton away next. UP ONE

No 5: Neil Warnock - Queens Park Rangers

A new owner should provide some new hope for Warnock whose QPR side have been inconsistent in their return to the Premier League. The former Sheffield United manager received funds to boost his squad in the last days of the transfer window but now he has to deliver for his new chiefs. Newcastle next. DOWN FIVE

No 6: Martin Jol - Fulham

It's been a poor start for Jol who is still searching for his first league win since taking over in the summer. He also needs an increase in fire power with just one goal scored. Mind you, he started badly at Spurs and at least the west London side are looking good in Europe. UP SIX

No 7: Roy Hodgson - West Bromwich Albion

There was no disgrace in losing to Manchester United and Chelsea – both games featured excellent performances from the Baggies. But the home defeat to Stoke has raised a few alarm bells despite the early stages of the season. A trip to Norwich next. UP THREE

No 8: Arsene Wenger - Arsenal

The board insist he isn't going anywhere, instead backing the Frenchman to splash more cash on new signings. Swansea at home next is an ideal fixture for Arsenal to get back on track and for Wenger to win back some disgruntled fans. UP NINE

No 9: Alan Pardew - Newcastle United

It's been a fine start to the season for Newcastle who have opened with a draw against Arsenal and two wins. The loss of three key players in the summer doesn't seem to have affected Pardew at this stage who will aim for four straight victories overall at QPR next. DOWN FIVE

No 10: Roberto Martinez - Wigan Athletic

With opening fixtures against all the promoted sides, Wigan just about passed the test with a modest five points. They are undefeated but it's a trip to Manchester City next. Martinez will have earned his corn if he can leave the Etihad Stadium with even a point. DOWN TWO

No 11: Mick McCarthy - Wolverhampton Wanderers

There is a feel-good-factor running through Wolves, and it's not very often Mick McCarthy has managed to experience that in the Premier League. The new signings have settled well and maybe, just maybe, a relegation battle is not on the schedule this term. DOWN FIVE

No 12: Owen Coyle - Bolton Wanderers

Memories of the impressive win at QPR on the opening day have been forgotten after consecutive defeats against Liverpool and Manchester City – both admittedly tricky games. It's not about to get easier either with Manchester United next. DOWN ONE

No 13: Andre Villas-Boas - Chelsea

A draw at Stoke and two unconvincing home victories ensure Chelsea have the points at this stage if not the performance. A tricky visit to Sunderland is next and if he is not careful Villas-Boas could already get involved in playing catch up with the Manchester sides. UP FIVE

No 14: Brendan Rodgers - Swansea City

Foundations have been laid by Rodgers who at least has his team defending well (if you discount a second-half collapse at Manchester City.) The trouble is they still haven't scored and draws alone will not keep them in the Premier League. Arsenal away next. DOWN FIVE

No 15: Tony Pulis - Stoke City

You won't find a foreword from Pulis in many books on the passing game, but you may find one on how to take on the Premier League. Stoke have steadily improved in their four seasons in the top flight and now boast a team capable of finishing in the top half. DOWN ONE

No 16: David Moyes - Everton

Another transfer window has passed with the Toffees' chequebook collecting more dust, and the Glaswegian may start to feel he has achieved all he can at the club – especially with key players starting to be sold. NON-MOVER

No 17: Roberto Mancini - Manchester City

If people didn't take City as title contenders before the start of the season they may do now. Mancini's side showed their class against Swansea, their composure at Bolton and their brutality at Tottenham. No doubt a force but can the Italian keep them consistent? DOWN FOUR

No 18: Paul Lambert - Norwich City

Lambert can do no wrong this season but even he will be bitterly disappointed at having not picked up a first win. Late goals conceded against Chelsea and Stoke have already cost them three points and those habits were what sent Blackpool down last season. DOWN THREE

No 19: Kenny Dalglish - Liverpool

Dalglish looks like he has sorted all of Liverpool's problems from previous regimes out already. Flops have been moved on and his summer signings have so far stood up to the task. Champions League is the target but even the title will be an aim at this stage. NON-MOVER

No 20: Sir Alex Ferguson - Manchester United

Three games and three wins, but the manner in which United palmed off Tottenham and ripped apart Arsenal is a statement of intent to all their rivals. Fergie's side once again look like the team to beat. And that's not good news for Bolton who stand in their way next. NON-MOVER




Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2034764/Firing-Line-Steves-slippery-slope--Blackburn-boss-Kean-pressure-poor-start.html#ixzz1XQoS5tw4

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What are the odds Martin Jol pips Fergie to Manager of the Month? Derek McGovern's Bets of the Day



Alex Ferguson won the title last season but Roberto Di Matteo, then at West Brom, won as many manager-of-the-month awards as him.

I can't believe he managed that with the players he had at his disposal but he keeps delivering the goods, that Fergie.

DiMatteo won his solitary award last September, the latest in a longline of September surprises following the likes of Phil Brown, Steve Coppell, Paul Jewell, John Gregory, Peter Taylor and Arsene Wenger.

Roberto Mancini is 2-1 favourite with Victor Chandler to get the September gong this season while Fergie - the man who celebrates like a gran winning at bingo, only with a stopwatch in his hand - is 5-1.

But history dictates we go for a longshot - I'm going for Martin Jol at 16-1, then I'm going for a lie-down.

**

There are only five teams who can possibly win the Rugby World Cup and four of those can't possibly win it.

Hills have pushed England's odds out from 14-1 to 16-1 despite hefty liabilities and that's a coincidence because England have a squad of hefty liabilities.

I'm not suggesting England captain Lewis Moody is injury-prone but Rio Ferdinand refers to him as 'sicknote'.

It would be lovely to think Martin Johnson's men could end up triumphant because of the value to rugby in this country such a victory would have.

After our 2003 triumph, for instance, there was a huge up surge in England in the number of young men lighting farts.

But England have a tough opener tomorrow against Argentina and, 25 years on from the Hand Of God, it would be no surprise to see some of those dastardly Argies once again use their hands.

New Zealand are the best team in the world and are on home soil - they could only be more certain of victory if Jonno was selecting every other team and not just England's.

The All Blacks have France, Tonga, Canada and Japan in the same pool as them and that means two things: first, there won't be much room for lilos; second, it is impossible for them not to qualify for the next stage, held sometime next year.

New Zealand are 4-6. They are also certainties.

Hills offer 9-1 for a Northern Hemisphere side to triumph and that's well within their compass.

**

Bet of the Day
Once the trust goes out of a relationship it's really no fun lying to them any more.

Get on Romania at evens (Bet365) to beat Scotland with a 35-point start in tonight's Rugby World Cup clash.

**

The Man Booker prize is the annual literary award for contemporary fiction. It's an award that has somehow avoided my grasp.

I asked the panel if they'd read my last book. They replied: "We certainly hope so."

The longlist was announced in July but I couldn't be bothered to wade through it. Six authors have now been shortlisted for the award.

The winner bags £50,000 which sounds great until you realise it's all in book tokens.

I've heard a big whisper for Pigeon English by Stephen Kelman. The literary critics are literally cooing about it.

Supposedly a work of fiction, the plot centres around young lads caught up in gang warfare on a south London estate. Boy, he must have a vivid imagination.

The tone of Kelman's tome, 6-1 with Hills, is over-ridingly bleak but it does have some funny moments in it too. In fact I thought it was a riot.





Read more: http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/opinion/blogs/betting-blog/Derek-McGovern-betting-September-manager-of-the-month-Alex-Ferguson-Martin-Jol-Rougby-World-Cup-Man-Booker-Prize-article796323.html#ixzz1XQp7F54P
Sign up for MirrorFootball's Morning Spy newsletter Register here

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Exclusive - Schwarzer: Premier League will be a tough school for De Gea

Mark Schwarzer claims David De Gea will have to learn at the toughest school if he's to succeed at Manchester United.

The Spanish keeper has had a torrid first month at Old Trafford, letting in two goals against Manchester City in the Community Shield final, struggling against West Brom's physical approach and he was at fault for Theo Walcott's equaliser in the Red Devils' 8-2 win against Arsenal.

And Fulham shot-stopper Schwarzer has warned the former Atletico Madrid man that the Premier League is a far tougher training ground than La Liga.

He told the Alan Brazil Sports Breakfast show: "That's the downside of playing for a club like Man United.

"He's going to have to find his form very, very quickly. It's going to be a very, very tough school for him.

"The Premier League and Spanish leagues are worlds apart in the type of football that is played."



http://www.talksport.co.uk/sports-news/football/premier-league/1073/91/exclusive-schwarzer-premier-league-will-be-tough-school-de-gea?

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Fulham v Blackburn preview
Watch Fulham v Blackburn live on SSHD1 this Sunday from 3.30pm

Fulham will be going in search of their first win on Sunday, while Blackburn are still looking for their first point.

The Cottagers have suffered back-to-back defeats, following an opening day draw, and are languishing in the lower reaches of the table.

In fact, one point from their opening three games equals the club's previous worst start to a Premier League campaign in 2005/06.

Martin Jol will be aware of the need to start generating results, while he is also desperate for goals.

Fulham have notched just once in the league so far this season, and Clint Dempsey's late effort at Newcastle last time out proved to be nothing more than a consolation.

The Cottagers will, however, be pleased to see their American forward off the mark and will be hoping he can improve on a record that has seen him score three goals in his last four appearances against Blackburn.

The capital outfit will also fancy their chances now that they are back on home soil, having lost only one of their last 10 top-flight fixtures at Craven Cottage.

Blackburn will be hoping to leave London with three points this weekend, but even a draw would be a step in the right direction for Steve Kean's side.

They have yet to pick up a point this season, with Wolves, Everton and Aston Villahaving put them to the sword.

Rovers have not lost four Premier League games in a row since December 2008, during Paul Ince's ill-fated tenure.

It is the first time since 1947/48 that they have lost their opening three games of a top-flight campaign, and it is imperative they bounce back this weekend.

Team news

Fulham could hand a debut to their big-money deadline day recruit Bryan Ruiz.

Much is expected of the Costa Rica international and he could be thrust straight into Premier League action.

Bobby Zamora is also pushing for a striking berth after shaking off a knock, but Simon Davies is sidelined with a knee problem.

John Arne Riise and his brother Bjorn Helge Riise are nursing groin and hamstring injuries respectively.

Zdenek Grygera will be hoping to make his first appearance for the Cottagers following a summer switch from Juventus.
Blackburn were also able to add to their squad on deadline day and Yakubu and Scott Dann will be looking to make their bows for the club.

Dann will slip in at centre-half alongside Chris Samba, helping to cover the continued absence of Ryan Nelsen.

Morten Gamst Pedersen and David Dunn are carrying hamstring injuries, but Simon Vukcevic is in contention to make his debut.

Possible starting XIs
Fulham: Schwarzer, Grygera, Hughes, Hangeland, Baird, Dempsey, Murphy, Sidwell, Duff, Ruiz, Dembele.

Blackburn: Robinson, Salgado, Samba, Dann, Givet, Hoilett, N'Zonzi, Petrovic, Vukcevic, Robert, Yakubu.




http://www.skysports.com/football/match_preview/0,19764,11065_3422890,00.html?

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Former Fulham star could return to the Premier League

Former Fulham midfielder Steed Malbranque has revealed he could return to England after leaving St Etienne just weeks after joining the French outfit.

The 31-year-old played just once for the French side before announcing he would leave the club and it was rumoured he had quit to care for his ill son.

Malbrnaque denied the rumours, saying he did not even have a son and left St Etienne by mutual consent.

Many felt his playing days were over, but Malbranque has moved to deny these rumours.

"I never said that," he told L`Equipe, referring to suggestions he was retiring.

"The club said that. I am still hesitant. I cannot put myself in the future."

"I did not take pleasure in training. I tried to be happy but I could not," he said.

Malbranque also said he could make a return to these shores. "England probably suited me better," he added.

The Belgian born player made 172 appearances for the Cottagers in a five year spell before joining Tottenham and then Sunderland.



http://www.london24.com/sport/fulham/former_fulham_star_could_return_to_the_premier_league_1_1017830?

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Fulham v BLACKBURN: Four new signings in squad but Pedersen ruled out

New signings Yakubu, Scott Dann, Simon Vukcevic and Jordan Slew are all in the Blackburn squad for their visit to Fulham on Sunday.

Morten Gamst Pedersen (hamstring) is out however, while David Dunn is doubtful, also with a hamstring problem.


Poor start: Blackburn's late defeat to Everton means Rovers have lost their first three Premier League games

Ryan Nelsen will be assessed to see if he has recovered from his knee injury.

Provisional squad: Robinson, Salgado, Samba, Givet, Dann, Hanley, Olsson, Hoilett, Nzonzi, Petrovic, Grella, Lowe, Vukcevic, Formica, Rochina, Roberts, Goodwillie, Yakubu, Slew, Blackman.




Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2035523/Fulham-v-BLACKBURN-Four-new-signings-squad-Morten-Gamst-Pedersen-ruled-out.html#ixzz1XTM4OUVR

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Fulham    v    Blackburn
By Jonathan Pearce
BBC Match of the Day commentator

Barclays Premier League
Venue: Craven Cottage Date: Sunday, 11 September Kick-off: 1600 BST Coverage: Watch live on Sky Sports 1 and highlights on Match of the Day 2; listen on BBC Radio 5 live and local radio; text commentary on BBC Sport website and mobiles

TEAM NEWS
Fulham could give debuts to new signings Bryan Ruiz, Zdenek Grygera and Orlando Sa.

Simon Davies remains sidelined by a knee injury, while the Londoners will assess John Arne Riise, who returned from injury on international duty.

Blackburn are without midfielder Morten Gamst Pedersen because of a hamstring problem, while Ryan Nelsen and David Dunn are rated doubtful.

New signings Yakubu, Scott Dann and Simon Vukcevic could make their debuts.

MATCH PREVIEW
History could be made at Craven Cottage. Blackburn have never lost their opening four league matches since helping found the Football League in 1888. They have already made their worst start since 1947-48 ,when they were relegated. And unless Fulham win, it will be the Londoners' worst Premier League start. Early pressure is rising.

But both managers need time to bed in the new arrivals. Fulham have strengthened their defence with 31-year-old Zdenek Grygera. But it's at the other end where they needed support for Andrew Johnson and Bobby Zamora, who got the winner in this fixture last season with an 89th-minute penalty.

The £10.6m spent on Costa Rican Bryan Ruiz is a big gamble, but he scored 33 goals in 61 league games in two very good years at FC Twente and I'll take Fulham to start moving up the table quickly, even if the Europa League campaign will be a drain.

Clint Dempsey has a good scoring record in this fixture. If he plays, don't be surprised if he gets the winner. Only Liverpool have notched an away league win at the Cottage this year and I can't see Rovers pulling it off. They've only kept one clean sheet on their travels in 22 games, and 12 points from their last 17 matches is relegation form.

Scott Dann is an excellent signing who will shore up their defence. Serbian midfielder Radosav Petrovic went into the 2010 World Cup with top clubs chasing him, while David Goodwillie had enough talent to be named Scotland's Young Player of the Year. And Montenegro international Simon Vukcevic rediscovered his form at Sporting Lisbon after tantrums at Saturn in Russia.

But can Steve Kean harness that talent and answer the biggest riddle of them all? Will he be able to turn Yakubu into the bustling striker he was before his 2008 Achilles injury? If he can, Rovers have a goalscorer to steer them away from danger. It's a big if!

MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head

Blackburn have lost only two of their last 10 games against Fulham, although they have been beaten on their last two trips to Craven Cottage, conceding a total of six goals.
This fixture has not produced a goalless draw since 1983 when the sides met at Ewood Park in a Division Two game.
Fulham

Fulham have kept clean sheets in 10 of their last 16 competitive games (including Europa League qualifiers). However, they have conceded four goals in their last two league games.
This will be their 12th match of the season.
Fulham's only home league defeat in 2011 is their 5-2 loss to Liverpool on 9 May.
Damien Duff needs one more goal to reach 50 in the Premier League.
Blackburn

Rovers have lost their opening three Premier League games for the first time.
The last time they began a top-flight season with three successive defeats was in 1947-48, when they were eventually relegated. That year they drew their fourth game 0-0.
Victory would give Rovers their 300th away win in the top flight.
Blackburn have lost seven of their last 10 away league games (W1, D2, L7). Their only win was the 3-2 victory at Wolves on the final day of last season.



http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/14778563.stm?

[WhiteJC]

 
Lawro's prediction


Fulham v Blackburn (1600)

Blackburn did some dealings in the transfer window and I actually think they did OK. Yakubu has come in and I've heard good things about Simon Vukcevic as well. Scott Dann, too, is a fine signing.

It's all about how those players settle in now for Blackburn.

Rovers travel to Craven Cottage this weekend, though, and I nearly always fancy Fulham at home against anyone outside of the top four in all honesty so I'll go for them.

Fulham are a good side, very strong at home, and new striker Bryan Ruiz will give them an added dimension I'm sure.

Home win.

Prediction: 2-0

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Jol admits Fulham keen on Marseille striker

Fulham boss Martin Jol admits the club are hoping to resurrect a move for Marseille forward Andre-Pierre Gignac when the transfer window re-opens in January.

Gignac looked all set to complete a move to Fulham on transfer deadline day after he held positive talks with Jol but Marseille called off the transfer at the last minute.

Jol is still determined to land the signature of the French striker and hopes the two clubs can reach an agreement in the New Year.

Jol said: "We had the player here and thought we would get him on loan but Marseille decided they needed him back.

"We have established a good relationship with the player and the club so we will see what happens in the future."




http://www.talksport.co.uk/sports-news/football/premier-league/transfer-rumours/1075/64/jol-admits-fulham-keen-marseille-striker?

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Zamora back in Fulham fold

Fulham striker Bobby Zamora has been passed fit to return in Sunday's match against Blackburn, while Bryan Ruiz is in line for a debut.

Zamora has been badly missed by the Whites, who have lost all three matches he has missed with an ankle injury.

Costa Rica forward Ruiz is set to make his first appearance since a £10.6m move from Dutch club FC Twente, while fellow deadline day signings Zdenek Grygera and Orlando Sa are also expected to be in the squad.

John Arne Riise is still out but the Norwegian's brother Bjorn Helge has shaken off a knock, as has youngster Matthew Briggs.



http://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/zamora-back-in-fulham-fold/?

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Ruiz set for Fulham bow

Bryan Ruiz could make his Fulham debut in Sunday's Barclays Premier League clash against Blackburn at Craven Cottage.

The 26-year-old signed for the Cottagers in a £10.6m from FC Twente and could be joined in the squad by fellow deadline day signings Zdenek Grygera and Orlando Sa.

Fulham manager Martin Jol confirmed today that his international players have returned from duty unscathed, while Bobby Zamora, Bjorn Helge Riise and Matthew Briggs have overcome knocks.

Provisional squad: Schwarzer, Somogyi, Baird, Hangeland, Hughes, Senderos, Kelly, Grygera, JA Riise, BH Riise, Duff, Sidwell, Dembele, Dempsey, Etuhu, Gecov, Murphy, Sa, Zamora, Johnson, Ruiz




http://www.eecho.ie/news/sport/ruiz-set-for-fulham-bow-519903.html?

[WhiteJC]

 
FULHAM v Blackburn: New signing Ruiz could feature as Jol searches for first league win

Bryan Ruiz could make his Fulham debut in Sunday's Barclays Premier League clash against Blackburn at Craven Cottage.

The 26-year-old signed for the Cottagers in a £10.6million from FC Twente and could be joined in the squad by fellow deadline day signings Zdenek Grygera and Orlando Sa.


Hair raising signing: Ruiz may start against Blackburn

Fulham manager Martin Jol confirmed today that his international players have returned from duty unscathed, while Bobby Zamora, Bjorn Helge Riise and Matthew Briggs have overcome knocks.

Provisional squad: Schwarzer, Somogyi, Baird, Hangeland, Hughes, Senderos, Kelly, Grygera, JA Riise, BH Riise, Duff, Sidwell, Dembele, Dempsey, Etuhu, Gecov, Murphy, Sa, Zamora, Johnson, Ruiz




Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2035592/FULHAM-v-Blackburn-New-signing-Bryan-Ruiz-feature-Martin-Jol-searches-league-win.html#ixzz1XTO9Wsur

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Jol's Report

During the recent international break Fulham were busy finalising their summer transfer business on deadline day with the addition of three new recruits to the Club's First Team ranks.

Speaking ahead of Sunday's match against Blackburn at the Cottage, Manager Martin Jol reflected on a highly successful finale to the summer window for FFC.

"I think we did well," said Jol. "We needed a few additions to add to the quality of the squad and to make us stronger. The new players fitted in from the first moment they arrived. We had them in the building and had meals together [on transfer deadline day] which were good.

"I'm happy with the squad and we've almost got two players in every position. It creates more competition and allows us to play more games with different players. You can't use the same players all the time.

"Now they [the new signings] have to cope with the English style and life. That is the main thing. Most players will tell you the tempo is higher [in England]. The pace and quality of the game in England is very good and it wouldn't be strange if they need a few weeks to gel with the other players and staff."

Fulham's first signing on deadline day was former Juventus defender, Zdenek Grygera, a versatile defender that Jol knew plenty about before capturing the player on a one-year deal.

"He's [Grygera] a player I knew from Holland," explained Jol. "He then went to Juventus and he's a very versatile player. He started off as a right back, then he played for a few years at left back and he was a centre back at Ajax.

"He's [Grygera] a boy that can fill in at the back, at right back and centre back, and he's a good addition to the squad."

Prior to the Club capturing the services of Orlando Sa late on transfer deadline day, Jol had spoken of the need to reinforce his strike force and Fulham's manager is now satisfied he has the personnel to provide him with different options across European and domestic competitions.

"For me it was always a big thing to get a back up player for Bobby [Zamora] and not necessarily someone who's better or the same," said Jol. "I needed a target man.

"When Bobby wasn't available we tried with Clint and we tried with Andrew Johnson, but of course Andy for example, is better with someone like Bobby Zamora. So we had a little bit of a problem there. Hopefully now that problem is solved."

Of course the Fulham signing that captured all the headlines last week was that of Bryan Ruiz and Jol highlighted a few of the qualities the player possesses ahead of Sunday's Barclays Premier League match against Blackburn Rovers.

"He [Bryan] was here on Wednesday for the first time as he was in Spain getting his work permit. He trained on Wednesday and again today [Friday].

"He looked well in training this week. We played four versus four in different groups and he scored three goals in six minutes so that was a good start!

"Bryan was probably the best player in the Dutch League. So from the start he was our primary target but there were a few other clubs interested. However, as soon as we had him in the building we never let him go and he stayed with us.

"He started off on the left in Belgium but then in Holland they coach players to play on the other side and he did that. His favourite position is probably in the hole but in Holland he played on the right.

"He wants to go on the inside all the time and go for the one-two passes. He's like Kasami in that he's a left footer who prefers to play on the other side. There are quite a few players like that these days, like Damien Duff. It's a great quality to have in your squad if a player can fill in three positions."

Fulham are back in action on Sunday afternoon when Blacburn Rovers visit SW6 for a Barclays Premier League clash at Craven Cottage. Tickets are now on General Sale.



Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/September/JolsReport.aspx?#ixzz1XTObGPQa

[WhiteJC]

 
Squad sheets: Fulham v Blackburn Rovers

These sides have endured spluttering starts to the season, so something will have to give at Craven Cottage. Intrigue will be provided by the new signings to be blooded by both, with Bryan Ruiz an eye-catching addition for the hosts and Blackburn hoping their strengthening down the spine of their side will produce instant dividends. Steve Kean was in India last week meeting the owners, Venky's, though those did not apparently constitute crisis talks. "They're happy," said the manager. Yet he will be anxious to kickstart his club's campaign at Fulham, where he spent eight years with the academy and as assistant manager. Dominic Fifield

Venue Craven Cottage Tickets £20-£50 (0843 208 1234) Last season Fulham 3 Blackburn 2

Referee H Webb

This season's matches 2 Y11, R2, 6.50 cards per game

Odds Fulham 13-20 Blackburn 4-1 Draw 12-5


Fulham v Blackburn Rovers: Probable starters in bold, contenders in light. Photograph: Graphic

Fulham

Subs from Somogyi, Etheridge, Baird, Kelly, Grygera, Briggs, Kasami, Gecov, Duff, BH Riise, Etuhu, Johnson, Sa, Dembélé

Doubtful Briggs (thigh), BH Riise (hamstring), Zamora (ankle)

Injured Davies (knee, Nov)

Suspended None Form guide LLD

Disciplinary record Y5 R0

Leading scorer Dempsey 3

Blackburn

Subs from Dann, Slew, Goodwillie, Hanley, Formica, Givet, Petrovic, Anderson, Grella, Rochina, Bunn, Blackman, Henley, Aley

Doubtful Nelsen (knee), Dunn (hamstring)

Injured Pedersen (hamstring, 17 Sept)

Suspended None

Form guide LLL

Disciplinary record Y9 R0

Leading scorer Rochina 2

Match pointers

• One point from three games equals Fulham's worst start to a Premier League season

• Blackburn have lost their opening three games of a top-flight campaign for the first time since 1947-48

• Should he score against his former club, Damien Duff will record his 50th goal in the Premier League

• No team has committed more fouls this season than Blackburn with 44

• Clint Dempsey has scored three times in his last four games against Blackburn Rovers

Fulham v Blackburn Rovers Sunday 4pm Sky Sports 1



http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2011/sep/09/fulham-blackburn-premier-league-squad-sheets?

[WhiteJC]

 
Detrimental To Chris Smalling's Development?

Chris Smalling, considered one of the nations great young prospects, is expected to one day take over from the likes of John Terry and Rio Ferdiannd at the heart of England's defence, and line up alongside Phil Jones in United's once the days of Rio and Vidic come to an end at Old Trafford. Smalling was brought in to United in 2010 after impressing on loan at Fulham, and we were led to believe the 21-year-old would cover for an suspensions or injury problems in the centre of United's defence. Last season Smalling made 33 appearances in all competitions for United, and his performances on the field were believed to have put pressure on the Vidic and Ferdinand partnership that had gone relatively unchallenged for a number of years. It came as somewhat a surprise then to see Chris Smalling start the season at right back for both Manchester United and England, and some have suggested this could prove to be damaging to his development as a centre half.

Smalling won his first senior international cap last week in England's Euro 2012 qualifier away at Bulgaria, after impressing Fabio Capello in United's opening fixtures at right-back. The England boss claimed that he was "surprised" at how well Smalling had adapted to a new role at Old Trafford, and insisted the 21-year-old had "improved and improved" in United's opening fixtures since the Community Shield back at the beginning of August. After the 3-0 win in Bulgaria, Smalling himself admitted that he was still learning the position but that he was happy to carry on as England's right-back. Both Micah Richards and Glen Johnson were unavailable for England's fixtures, and Smalling's debut performance earned him a recall against Wales the following week, again on the right side of England's defence.

Smalling's rise to both the United starting eleven and the England national side has come incredibly quickly for the 21-year-old, who signed his first professional contract with Fulham in 2008. Until then, Smalling had played at Maidstone FC in the Isthmian League Divison One South. However, while at both Maidstone and Fulham, Smalling was always deployed in the centre of the defence, and it was his ability in this position that caught the attention of Sir Alex Ferguson while he was at Fulham. Smalling claimed that his aim for the season is "to play as many games as possible for United and to take it from there." Following the departures of both John O'Shea and Wes Brown over the summer, Smalling was introduced to the right-back position in United's pre-season games in what he believes to have been Ferguson's way of "seeing who would fit in".

While the youngster insists he is playing "OK" at right-back, the United defender says that his aim is to play in the centre of defence, and "to be challenging Rio and Vidic for their places", as that is where Smalling believes he is at his best. Although both Ferguson and Capello have insisted on playing Smalling at right-back, it seems unlikely that either will genuinely consider this to be his position in the long-term. With Rafael ruled out for 10 weeks back in August, and both Micah Richards and Glen Johnson also out for the time being, Smalling's role on the right side of the defence can surely only be a temporary solution for both club and country. Anyone who would suggest that playing at right-back may harm, or be a detriment to Smalling's development as a centre half is surely mistaken, considering the opportunities that lay ahead at both Manchester United and for England.

At just 21, Smalling has already made an impression on the Premier League and earned his place in the national side. Regardless of where the defender plays, the experience of regular first team football for both club and country is going to be beneficial to the players career altogether, and especially with a club such as Manchester United. Smalling himself sees his role at right-back as only a temporary fixture, however is keen to play "wherever needed" by either Ferguson and Capello. The defender is fully aware that both managers will know what is best for him, and if, for the time being, that means playing at right-back, then the 21-year-old appears more than happy to do so.

With the likes of John Terry, Rio Ferdinand, and Nemanja Vidic all entering the latter stage of their careers, it seems as though it will be only a matter of time before Smalling's potential in the heart of the defence at both national and club level is realized by Ferguson and the next England manager. Until then, Smalling will be keen to make an impression wherever he is deployed, and so long as he is contributing to clean sheets with United, and putting in the kind of performances that have earned him a call up to the national side, then no harm or 'detriment' will be brought upon his development as a centre-back. Smalling should relish in playing regularly for club and country, and with a long career ahead of him should certainly not have concerns that his ability at centre-half has gone unnoticed – opportunities in the heart of United's defence are bound to arise as the season progresses, and when they do, we can expect the 21-year-old to reaffirm his intentions to remain there.



http://www.footballfancast.com/2011/09/football-blogs/detrimental-to-chris-smallings-development?

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham v Blackburn Rovers: match preview
Read a full match preview of the Premier League game between Fulham and Blackburn Rovers at Craven Cottage on Sunday Sep 11 2011, kick-off 16.00 BST.

TV: Sky Sport 1, Highlights BBC2 Match of the Day 2
Betting: Home 4-6, Away 9-2, Draw 13-5

Fulham, LWDDLL, (Probable, 4-4-2): Schwarzer; Grygera, Hughes, Hangeland, Baird; Duff, Murphy, Sidwell, Ruiz; Dembele, Demspey.

Blackburn, DDWLLL (Probable, 4-3-3): Robinson; Salgado, Samba, Dann, Givet; Nzonzi, Petrovic, Vukcevic; Hoilett, Goodwillie, Yakubu.

Out: Pedersen (hamstring). Tests: Dunn (hamstring), Nelsen (knee).

Team news: New signings Yakubu, Scott Dann, Simon Vukcevic and Jordan Slew are all in the Blackburn squad for their visit to Fulham.

Morten Gamst Pedersen (hamstring) is out however, while David Dunn is doubtful, also with a hamstring problem. Ryan Nelsen will be assessed to see if he has recovered from his knee injury.

Stat: Fulham have scored six goals in their last two home games against Blackburn.

Match notes: These two teams have scored a paltry three goals between them so far this season, but Fulham will be hoping the arrival of £10.6m striker Bryan Ruiz will change that sorry statistic. Blackburn have deadline day reinforcements of their own in the shape of Scott Dann and Yakubu, but the pressure on both sides to improve after disappointing starts to the season is likely to lead to a scrappy affair that Fulham should just edge.
Julian Bennett's prediction: Fulham 2-0 Blackburn.




http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/competitions/premier-league/8750160/Fulham-v-Blackburn-Rovers-match-preview.html

[WhiteJC]

 
Double striker boost for Jol

Martin Jol is boosted by the return to fitness of Bobby Zamora and Bryan Ruiz's availability for Fulham's visit of Blackburn on Sunday.

Cottagers' boss, Jol, recently bemoaned his attacking options following the 2-1 defeat at Newcastle in their last game before the international break.

But, the Dutch tactician will be delighted with the news that star striker, Zamora, is fit after overcoming an ankle injury which forced him to miss the last three games which the Cottagers lost.

Add to that the news 26-year-old £10.6million deadline day striker signing from FC Twente, Ruiz, secured his work permit earlier in the week and he can also feature against Blackburn, who have no points from their three Premier League outings to date.

Fellow new boys Zdenek Grygera and Orlando Sa are also set to be in the squad, while Bjorn Helge Riise and Matthew Briggs have overcome knocks.




http://www.eatsleepsport.com/fulham/double-striker-boost-for-jol-1280379.html?#.Tmo-4nPHo98