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Wednesday Fulham Stuff (10.03.10)

Started by White Noise, March 10, 2010, 05:48:11 AM

Previous topic - Next topic

White Noise

http://www.goal.com/en/news/166/europa-league/2010/03/10/1826110/paolo-de-ceglie-eases-juventus-injury-fears-ahead-of-fulham


Paolo De Ceglie Eases Juventus Injury Fears Ahead Of Fulham Clash


'Paolino' insists he is fit and hopes Juve can continue their progress against the Cottagers.


By Vince Masiello


Mar 10, 2010 9:10:00 AM


Juventus full-back Paolo De Ceglie has admitted he has fully recovered from the minor injury he suffered at Fiorentina last weekend and will be in contention for a starting shirt for Fulham's visit.

The English side travel to the Olimpico tomorrow night for the first leg of the Europa League last 16 tie and there were fears De Ceglie would be ruled out after hobbling away in Florence.

But he told Sky Sport Italia: "I'm fine now, I have recovered and am ready for Thursday's match.

"We all care for the Europa League and want to keep doing well. Just like we did against Fiorentina when we got a really important victory."

White Noise

Zolly's Euro Dream
Wednesday 10th March 2010


Fulham FC News


Zoltan Gera is expected to partner Bobby Zamora in attack against Juventus in the first leg of the last 16 of the UEFA Europa League on Thursday night.

The Hungarian is clearly looking forward to challenging one of the giants of world football in Torino and spoke of his desire to repeat another sensational result on the European stage.

"It's a very good opportunity for us to play against one of the best clubs in the world," Gera explained.

"We are very happy to be at this stage, playing for a place in the Quarter-Finals. It's very good for the supporters and the Club.

"I like to watch football in general so I know Juventus and the players. I watch a lot of games from the Italian and Spanish leagues so there won't be any surprises because I've seen them a few times.

"They have very talented players, especially up front with players like Del Piero and Trezeguet. They are good defensively and offensively but hopefully we can do a good job on Thursday night."

Fulham will return to the Cottage next Thursday for the return leg and when questioned whether playing away first hands Fulham an early advantage, Gera preferred to focus on the fine performance Fulham gave the last time they made the trip to Italy.

"I don't know if there's any advantage playing away first," said Gera. "Normally it's better to play away from home in the first leg. Hopefully we can just get a good result in Torino and give ourselves a good chance to go through at the Cottage.

"There will be a big difference between Shakhtar Donetsk and Juventus. We played against Roma twice and played very well and hopefully we can do the same against Juventus and get a result."


Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/March/GeraJuveAwayPreview.aspx#ixzz0hlx60dI2

White Noise

http://www.express.co.uk/posts/view/162450/Erik-Nevland-to-leave-Fulham-at-end-of-season

ERIK NEVLAND TO LEAVE FULHAM AT END OF SEASON 

Wednesday March 10,2010

FULHAM'S Norwegian striker Erik Nevland will leave the club on a free transfer at the end of this season to join his former team Viking Stavanger.

Erik Nevland, 32, who began his career at Viking in 1995, has scored three goals in 23 games this season.

Viking also made a bid to take Fulham's Swedish defender Fredrik Stoor on a free transfer, but he has rejected the move.


White Noise

http://www.newsoftheworld.co.uk/sport/football/753132/VIKING-ATTEMPT-DOUBLE-SWOOP-ON-FULHAM.html

VIKING ATTEMPT DOUBLE SWOOP ON FULHAM

Nevland goes - Stoor also wanted


By Adam Marshall, 10/03/2010

VIKING have agreed a deal to sign Fulham striker Erik Nevland at the end of the season and they're also trying to secure the services of Fredrik Stoor.
The Norwegians are re-signing former Manchester United forward Nevland on a free transfer as his contract is due to expire at Craven Cottage.

Coach Aage Hareide is delighted to land the 32-year-old but also wants Swedish right-back Stoor.

The defender says he doesn't want to go on loan to Stavanger after having a temporary stint with Derby and Viking have until the end of the month to conclude a deal.

It all depends whether they can agree terms with Roy Hodgson because the Fulham boss is looking for a fee.

The West Londoners have a huge match on Thursday when they travel to Italy to face Juventus in the Europa League.

"They are not Manchester United, that's clear, but English clubs are never easy to beat," said Juve's Brazilian midfielder Diego.

White Noise

http://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/matches/season=2010/round=2000039/match=2000945/prematch/focus/index.html

Pantsil points way forward for Fulham

Published: Wednesday 10 March 2010


by Michael Harrold from London

Defender John Pantsil told UEFA.com Fulham FC will not be overawed by heavyweights Juventus as they prepare for their last-16 tie. "We're not afraid of anyone – whoever comes, we are ready," he said.

For a Fulham FC side that only avoided relegation on the final day of the 2007/08 Premier League season, the prospect of facing two-time European champions Juventus for a place in the UEFA Europa League quarter-finals represents a remarkable upturn in fortunes.

The west London club surpassed expectations last term by claiming a best ever seventh-place finish, and have thrived on the continental stage. Having knocked out UEFA Cup holders FC Shakhtar Donetsk to reach the round of 16, Fulham will not be overawed by the exclusive company they are now keeping, no matter how illustrious the opposition. "We're not afraid of anyone – whoever comes, we are ready," John Pantsil told UEFA.com. "I'm not used to losing games. I just go for victory."

It is an uncomplicated approach, and one that has established the 28-year-old Ghanaian international right-back in Fulham supporters' affections. Despite missing the Shakhtar tie because of a knee injury, his name rang out around Craven Cottage in the first leg, an ode to a man who says he "does everything from my heart".

That includes a lap of honour to thank the supporters after every home success. "The fans deserve everything I give them on the pitch, because they show appreciation. Whether it's raining or not, they're sitting, shouting, singing. So every game the team wins, I have to give them the lap of honour. They deserve it."

So do Fulham, a family club whose Craven Cottage ground sits picturesquely on the banks of the Thames. Behind the homely facade, however, lies a steely determination that is producing impressive results.

Since kicking off in the third qualifying round in July, Fulham have seen off seasoned European campaigners FC Basel 1983 in the group stage, winning in Switzerland to advance, gone toe to toe with Italian giants AS Roma and ended the ambitions of an experienced, skilful Shakhtar side.

It is easy to forget this is only the club's second season in European competition, their 2002/03 run to the UEFA Cup third round via the UEFA Intertoto Cup their only previous continental foray. With Roy Hodgson at the helm, though, Fulham do not lack experience. "He has done well," Pantsil said of Hodgson, who took FC Internazionale Milano to the UEFA Cup final in 1997.

"He has time for each and every [player]. He has changed the team, he has lifted the team to a certain level. His training makes us feel more relaxed and more comfortable with our positions on the pitch. He is experienced. He knows how to coach his players to play European football."

The former Switzerland and Finland coach took charge in December 2007 with Fulham in freefall. He arrested the slide and then masterminded the recovery, with victory at Portsmouth FC on the final day of the 2007/08 campaign keeping the club in the Premier League.

The signings of Pantsil and striker Bobby Zamora – scorer of the spectacular first-leg winner against Shakhtar – from West Ham United FC, as well as goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer and centre-back Brede Hangeland, established roots which are now bearing fruit. Success in Europe, Pantsil says, "is great. It is pushing us, it is giving us morale, strength and also confidence."

There is no shortage of those attributes in Pantsil himself. The cruciate ligament injury he sustained in December was expected to keep him out for the season, but he now hopes to be back early next month. With Fulham going well in three competitions and the prospect of the FIFA World Cup to come in June, he is determined not to miss out on the action.

Representing Ghana at a World Cup was Pantsil's dream as a child, but it might never have been realised had he followed his father into the police force as his parents wished. Pantsil's passion, though, was always football and it was an enforcer of a different kind – former Manchester United FC midfielder Roy Keane – that he most admired growing up. "He was a good leader, a great midfielder, he always fought for what belonged to him on the pitch." Juventus, too, can expect no quarter in Turin on Thursday.

White Noise

http://www.goal.com/en/news/1715/match-preview/2010/03/10/1826396/europa-league-preview-juventus-fulham

Europa League Preview: Juventus - Fulham

It's Italy against England again in Europe, this time in the Round of 16 of the Europa League.....


By Subhankar Mondal


Mar 10, 2010 12:15:00 PM


Kick-Off: March 11, Thursday, 21:05 CET.
Stadio Olimpico, Turin, Italy.

Rejuvenated And Resurrected

Alberto Zaccheroni will probably not stay on as the Juventus coach beyond the end of the current season but his impact on the Bianconeri has been massive so far. The Old Lady were struggling for a place in the top six in Serie A when the 56-year-old arrived and although Juve are currently fifth in the league standings with 44 points from 27 league matches, things have improved since his arrival.

Juventus were given a tricky tie in the Round of 32 in the Europa League as they were pitted against Dutch powerhouse and former European champions Ajax, but they came through quite comfortably in the end. After defeating the Godenzonen 2-1 in the first leg at the Amsterdam ArenA, the Bianconeri played out a 0-0 draw in Turin to progress 2-1 on aggregate.

However, Juventus will be wary of playing Fulham. Even though the Cottagers have an inferior pedrigree in Europe to Juve, they have been in great form so far this campign in the Premier League and, playing against more illustrious opponents, they will have nothing to lose.




Flying High

Fulham have been going pretty strong this season in most competitions. Although a European spot in the table looks almost impossible now, at the moment they are actually 10th in the table with 38 points from 28 matches.

This weekend Roy Hodgson's side featured in the quarter-finals of the FA Cup, but failed to beat Tottenham Hotspur at home, limping to a 0-0 draw and being forced into a replay. However, that shouldn't demotivate a club that have flirted with relegation on several occasions since arriving back in English football's top flight in 2001.

Fulham narrowly defeated Ukrainian side Shakhtar Donetsk in the round of 32. They won 2-1 at home and held the 2009 UEFA Cup winners to a 1-1 draw in the away leg. For a club of their budget and size, featuring in the last 16 stage and locking horns with one of the giants of European football is an achievement in itself. Moreover, playing away from home in the first leg in the pre-quarterfinals is actually an advantage for the Lilywhites.


FORM GUIDE

Juventus

March 6 v Fiorentina (A) - WON 2-1 (Serie A)

February 28 v Palermo (H) - LOST 2-0 (Serie A)


February 25 v Ajax (H) - DREW 0-0 (Europa League)

February 21 v Bologna (A) - WON 2-1 (Serie A)

February 18 v Ajax (A) - WON 2-1 (Europa League)


Fulham

March 6 v Tottenham Hotspur (H) - DREW 0-0 (FA Cup)

February 28 v Sunderland (A) - DREW 0-0 (Premier League)

February 25 v Shakhtar Donetsk (A) - DREW 1-1 (Europa League)

February 21 v Birmingham City (H) - WON 2-1 (Premier League)

February 18 v Shakhtar Donetsk (H) - WON 2-1 (Europa League)


TEAM NEWS

Juventus

Buffon, Chimenti, Amauri, Giovinco and Chiellini are struggling with injuries while there are concerns over the fitness of Legrottaglie, Camoranesi and Diego. Marchisio is suffering from fever and it is not confirmed at the moment whether he will feature on Thursday evening or not.

Probable Line-up (4-3-1-2): Manninger, Grygera, Legrottaglie, Cannavaro, Grosso; Sissoko, Felipe Melo, Marchisio; Diego; Trezeguet, Del Piero

Fulham

The English side will line up in a 4-4-2 formation. Danny Murphy missed the game against Spurs at the weekend but is back for the trip to Turin, although USA international Clint Dempsey, Ghana defender John Pantsil and Andrew Johnson remain unavailable.

Probable Line-up (4-4-2): Schwarzer, Baird, Hughes, Hangeland, Shorey; Etuhu, Murphy, Duff, Davies; Gera, Zamora


PLAYER TO WATCH

Diego (Juventus)

The Brazilian trequartista was impressive against Ajax in the return leg and he will again be the creator-in-chief for the Bianconeri on Thursday. Diego scored against Fiorentina at the weekend and looked to be in great shape and form. The 25-year-old led Werder Bremen to the final of the UEFA Cup in 2009 and he will be the main player that the Fulham defenders will have to keep an eye on.


Bobby Zamora (Fulham)

The 29-year-old is Fulham's leading scorer and will be a headache for the Juventus defenders. Zamora has scored eight times in the Premier League with four assists and has netted the ball thrice and given one assist in the Europa League. He failed to score against Spurs at the weekend and will be raring to give his side an away goal to take home after Thursday's match.

PREDICTION

Playing at home in the first leg in a Cup tie in Europe is never an easy task and indeed Fulham will be happy with a scoring draw. However, on paper, Juventus do have a better attacking unit and they should be able to score, although their problems at the back could enable the Cottagers to return home with a precious away goal.

Juventus 2-1 Fulham


White Noise

http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2010/03/10/greening-gears-up-for-juventus-clash-82029-26002881/

Greening gears up for Juventus clash


Mar 10 2010 By Jacob Murtagh



FULHAM will have to reproduce the performances against Shakhthar Donetsk if they stand any chance of causing another upset against Juventus.

So says Jonathan Greening, who's in line to deputise for the suspended Danny Murphy for tomorrow's clash in Turin.

The Whites won through to the last 16 of the Europa League after a 3-2 aggregate lead against the UEFA Cup holders.

And Greening says Fulham will have to hit the same heights if they're to get past the Italian giants.

He said:"It's just what dreams are made up. If we can put in a good performance like we did against Shakhtar – then everything is possible.

"We're well prepared under the gaffer because everyone knows their jobs."

Greening has failed to cement a regular starting spot at Craven Cottage since his summer move from West Brom.

But he's ready to grab his chance with both hands at the Stadio Olimpico di Torino.

"I knew we would be in Europe this year and that's one of the reasons I came [to Fulham]," he added.

"Danny's captain and has been playing well – but it gives me a chance to come in and do well.

"Every player wants to play in these type of games."

White Noise

#27
Juventus v FULHAM: Skipper Danny Murphy banned for Euro glamour game

By Sportsmail Reporter

Last updated at 12:02 PM on 10th March 2010


Fulham will be without Danny Murphy for the first leg of their Europa League last-16 tie against Serie A giants Juventus in Turin.  

The Cottagers captain was sent off in the previous round against Shakhtar Donetsk and misses out along with Nicky Shorey and Stefano Okaka, who are both cup-tied.

Paul Konchesky could replace Shorey at left-back if he recovers from an ankle injury but Andy Johnson, Clint Dempsey and John Pantsil (all knee) remain sidelined.

Provisional squad: Schwarzer, Zuberbuhler, Baird, Kelly, Stoor, Hangeland, Konchesky, Hughes, Smalling, Marsh-Brown, Gera, Duff, Greening, Davies, Etuhu, Riise, Nevland, Elm, Zamora.  


Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1256888/Juventus-v-FULHAM-Skipper-Danny-Murphy-banned-Euro-glamour-game.html?ITO=1490#ixzz0hmbZSCJW

White Noise

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/europe/8558323.stm

Juventus    v    Fulham


Thursday, 11 March 2010

Europa League

Home Team Score Away Team Time
Juventus v  Fulham 20:05

   


Venue: Stadio Olimpico di Torino Date: Thursday 11 March Kick-off: 2005 GMT Coverage: BBC Sport website, BBC Radio 5 live and ITV4




--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


 
Fulham will be without captain Danny Murphy for the first leg of their Europa League last-16 tie against Serie A giants Juventus in Turin on Thursday.

Murphy was sent off in Fulham's 3-2 aggregate win over holders Shakhtar Donetsk in the previous round.

Nicky Shorey and Stefano Okaka, who are both cup-tied, will also be missing.

Paul Konchesky could replace Shorey at left-back if he recovers from an ankle injury but Andy Johnson, Clint Dempsey and John Pantsil (all knee) are out.



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Fulham provisional squad: Schwarzer, Zuberbuhler, Baird, Kelly, Stoor, Hangeland, Konchesky, Hughes, Smalling, Marsh-Brown, Gera, Duff, Greening, Davies, Etuhu, Riise, Nevland, Elm, Zamora.


White Noise

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/sport/football/premier_league/manchester_united/article7056430.ece

Two thirds of Manchester United supporters may not renew season tickets


Ben Smith

26 Comments
Recommend? (7)

Manchester United could be facing a fresh backlash from their supporters as it was revealed that two thirds of fans are considering not renewing their season tickets next season.

The figures, which have been published in a study conducted by Virgin Money, suggest that supporters are stepping up their revolt against Malcolm Glazer's ownership, which has gained fresh momentum over the past few weeks following interest from a group calling themselves the Red Knights.

There has been widespread discontent among the supporters ever since the American and his sons bought the club in a highly-leveraged takeover in the summer of 2005.

Many United supporters have already been driven away by huge ticket price increases, with the average season ticket price going up from £487 pre-takeover to £722 this year. The effect has been that while there has traditionally been a long waiting list for season tickets as demand far outstripped supply, for the first time in living memory a limited number of season tickets were available on general sale last summer.

The survey suggests that 15 per cent of season-ticket holders will give up their tickets completely, while another 44 per cent will only buy tickets for matches occasionally. Wolverhampton Wanderers also rate highly in the survey, with 54 per cent of supporters considering giving up their season tickets.

"The drop in costs is welcome but season tickets are still priced astronomically compared with other major European leagues such as Spain, Italy and Germany," Malcolm Clarke, Chairman of the Football Supporters' Federation, said. "Shamefully, Manchester United was the only Premier League club that put up their prices for the current season. Every other club froze or reduced them.

"They also sold Cristiano Ronaldo to Real Madrid. Huge numbers of United fans are in open revolt against the Glazer family's huge cash drain on the club. They're paying the price for the leveraged buy-out in 2005 that has loaded a massive £700 million debt on to United's books. The Glazer regime has put up ticket prices by half in less than five years. No wonder almost six out of ten Old Trafford season-ticket holders are thinking of not renewing."

According to reports yesterday, thousands of fans are preparing to boycott the opening ten minutes of tonight's Champions League match against AC Milan, leaving the television cameras to pan empty seats in a visual demonstration of anti-Glazer feeling. The prime mover behind the green and gold movement, the Manchester United Supporters Trust (MUST) sought yesterday to play down talk of a mass boycott tonight - although the ploy may be used at other matches.

The backlash against season tickets comes despite figures showing that the cost of attending games has fallen by 6 per cent in the past year. According to the study, fans of Liverpool and Stoke City are the least likely to give up season tickets next year with just 9 per cent of supporters considering cut backs.

Percentage of fans considering cancelling season tickets

Manchester United 59
Wolves 54
Burnley 31
Fulham 29
Everton 28
Blackburn 28
Portsmouth 28
West Ham 27
Aston Villa 24
Sunderland 23
Wigan 21
Tottenham 19
Manchester City 18
Birmingham 17
Chelsea 17
Hull 17
Arsenal 14
Bolton 13
Liverpool 9
Stoke City 9

White Noise

FFC Hosts Down's Syndrome Tournament

Wednesday 10th March 2010


Fulham FC News

Down's syndrome football teams from across London will come together at the Fulham FC Training Ground to launch Down's Syndrome Awareness Week on Sunday 14th March at 11am.

The tournament will bring together the four London-based DSActive teams: Fulham Badgers, QPR Tiger Cubs, Charlton Upbeats and West Ham United DS Team. Unlike traditional tournaments, the main focus is not on winning or losing, but just taking part.

To kick-off the festivities, coaches from each of the Clubs involved will engage the players in coaching sessions to help them learn new skills and techniques. The football coaches have learned on the job through the help of the Down's Syndrome Association (DSA) and sharing their experiences since there is no formal training available to coaches. Side by side the players and coaches will learn new skills and delivery methods together.

The seven-a-side tournament will officially kick-off at 1pm, with each game being modified to fit the needs of those with Down's syndrome and will be ten minutes in length with ten minute breaks.

DSA parent member and patron Kevin Kilbane offers his support:

"It is great to see all of the football clubs coming together in support of Down's syndrome." Kevin further explained, "This tournament is a fantastic opportunity for the players to showcase their skills. Having had the privilege of experiencing a couple DSActive training sessions, I know the tournament will be a success and an excellent opportunity to highlight to the outside world their true ability."

Steven Day, Chief Executive of the Fulham Football Club Foundation, said:

"I am delighted that Fulham Football Club is able to host the first ever Down's Syndrome Football Tournament. This tournament marks the continuation of the fantastic work carried out by Fulham FC Foundation in collaboration with the Down's Syndrome Association since June 2006 and, more recently, with some other London clubs. The Foundation's ethos is to help build better lives through sport and the tournament is a perfect example of a number of partners working together to help achieve this."


Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/March/DownsSyndromeTournament.aspx#ixzz0hmwsuSt0

White Noise

http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/10032010/58/europa-league-team-news-murphy-missing.html

Europa League - Team news: Murphy missing


PA Sport - Wed, 10 Mar 13:52:00 2010

       
Fulham will be without captain Danny Murphy for the first leg of their Europa League last-16 tie against Serie A giants Juventus in Turin.

The Cottagers' captain was sent off in the previous round against Shakhtar Donetsk and misses out along with Nicky Shorey and Stefano Okaka, who are both cup-tied.

Paul Konchesky could replace Shorey at left-back if he recovers from an ankle injury but Andy Johnson, Clint Dempsey and John Pantsil (all knee) remain sidelined.

Juventus boss Alberto Zaccheroni has a number of injury concerns ahead of the visit of Fulham to the Stadio Olimpico.

Goalkeeper Gigi Buffon, striker Amauri, midfielder Sebastian Giovinco and defender Giorgio Chiellini are all struggling with knocks while defender Nicola Legrottaglie and midfield duo Mauro Camoranesi and Diego are doubtful.

Midfielder Claudio Marchisio will have to prove his fitness after suffering from a fever during the week.

Follow live text commentary on the game in Italy from 20:05 on Thursday here on Eurosport-Yahoo!


White Noise

http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/football/danny-murphy/article/4117/

Pompey Cup run a great story

Tue Mar 09 12:15PM

It has been a great story for Portsmouth to reach the FA Cup semi-final this season, and I am delighted for them.
They are a side that possess a lot of quality and I believe without the difficulties off the pitch which led to a number of their more recognisable names leaving, Portsmouth would be a competitive mid-table team.

Their run in the FA Cup shows that within the squad, there is plenty of self belief and character. In a way, the competition has been a release for them to go out and enjoy their football without the burden of a torrid league campaign. They seem like a really close group of individuals that have managed to stay strong throughout the adversity.

It is difficult to envisage a similar situation at Fulham, but I am sure when the chips are down, most clubs would be able to pull together and feel galvanised as a result.

It is clearly a difficult situation when wages are paid late, especially when players have financial commitments to savings, mortgages and regular outgoings. It is something that the players at Portsmouth have had to deal with on a number of occasions, but naturally people can only accommodate it for so long.

Avram Grant has done a great job at the club and he has really developed a good rapport with the fans and players in the Portsmouth squad. He is doing himself credit and, from personal experience, he is a very likeable character and is certainly going to work hard to keep his players motivated.

He has stuck with the club and his focus is solely on trying to retain Portsmouth's Premier League status.

The most difficult time that I encountered whilst in a squad was when I was battling for Fulham to work our way out of the relegation zone. Players were literally playing for their future. A lot of credit must go to the squad and particularly the gaffer in that situation as his calming influence had a huge impact on our survival effort.

Of course, things are different now, and we are in the latter stages of two cup competitions. Following our FA Cup quarter-final draw with Tottenham at home, it will be a challenging fixture for us when we head to White Hart Lane for the replay. They are an excellent team, both home and away, and we certainly felt the game was there for the taking in the initial fixture.

White Noise

http://www.footballfancast.com/football-blogs/andy-johnson-fulhams-forgotten-man?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+ffc_Premiership_Blogs+%28FFC_Premiership_Blogs%29


Andy Johnson – Fulham's Forgotten Man


Date: 10th March 2010 at 1:11 pm


Rapid front-man Andy Johnson faces the prospect of being Fulham's forgotten man after being sideline by injury for most of the year.

After helping Fulham last season to an historic 7th place in the league and the inevitable Europa League place that came with it last season, Johnson achieved a fairly decent return of 10 goals in 36 games in all competitions and although this is not especially prolific, his ability to get beyond his man and run in the channels was integral to Fulham's style of play.

With Bobby Zamora unable to hit a barn door last term, Johnson stepped up to the mantle of senior striker, a position that seems extremely far away nowadays. Roy Hodgson is an excellent man manager, his style is comparable to that of a Dickensian fruit and veg seller and he is unlikely to abandon Johnson after one season of injury struggles but he may play a reduced role upon his return.

The faith with which Hodgson placed in Zamora after a difficult season last year and after turning down repeated summer bids from Hull City shows his determination to stick by a player he feels serves the team well, and this does bode well for Johnson, but with February proving an excellent month for Fulham as well as coinciding with the month that Johnson's latest knee injury ruled him out for the rest of the season, Johnson must be growing increasingly concerned about his place in the team.

Johnson has been restricted to just eight appearances so far this season and has shown himself to be susceptible to little niggles throughout his career and as such he cannot often be relied upon to play an entire campaign and Hodgson may look to strengthen his attack in the summer.

With Diomansay Kamara performing well in Scotland for Celtic on loan and new signing Stefano Okaka already off the mark for Fulham after a goal in the FA Cup against Notts County last month it would appear his rivals are stepping up their game. His saving grace is that Fulham have relied upon goals from midfield this season and with a small squad such as theirs he's always likely to be involved in the first team squad when fit.

It may also help that with Fulham 10th at present, they look unlikely to repeat this season's European excursions in the Europa League and this means that there will be less emphasis on improving squad size to cope with the rigours of extra matches' year on year in the summer, with additions likely to be set on improving quality instead. Erik Nevland and David Elm do provide competition for places but are considered back-ups by Hodgson at the moment.

During his time at Everton Johnson was very much outgrown by his team in his absence. The Everton of Johnson's time compared to that of the one today, are immeasurably different in playing style and quality, and you can't help but get the feeling that Johnson will forever be viewed as a stop gap, a player who serves a purpose for the short term but one that's limited ability cannot be relied upon to take your team to the next level in the long term.

In his short spell at Everton they evolved from a side that played a counter-attacking game utilising Johnson's pace on the break to one that played possession football with every player (barring Tony Hibbert of course) capable of playing the ball to feet. This it is fair to say is not Johnson's strong point and Everton outgrew the need for a player of Johnson's limited game and skills set and the parallels in the evolving style of play of both Everton and Fulham after they achieved their initial success, which Johnson most definitely helped them to, are startlingly similar in their patterns.

For Fulham to truly reach the next level and stay around the mid-table/ pushing for Europe mark they will have to have a better consistent partner up front for Zamora than Johnson. At 29 years of age, time is on his side and he will most certainly still be at Fulham next season, but whether he'll be needed as much as he was last season is unlikely and Hodgson's Fulham have developed in his absence from a side built on defensive solidity and counter-attacking play to a genuinely aesthetically pleasing outfit to watch and their play has unquestionably evolved – unless Johnson does the same, he may find himself in a similar predicament to the one that he found himself in at Everton.

White Noise

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11681_6013655,00.html


Kelly relishes Turin trip

Fulham defender ready for Juve test


By Peter O'Rourke   

Last updated: 10th March 2010   


Fulham defender Stephen Kelly is relishing the prospect of locking horns with European giants Juventus in the Europa League.

The Cottagers travel to Turin on Thursday for the first leg of their last 16 encounter after seeing off Shakhtar Donetsk in the last round.

Kelly is excited about the possibility of tackling Juventus and he is determined to seize the opportunity as Fulham aim to pull off another shock by dumping out the Bianconeri.

"Playing Juventus in the Europa League is a dream come true," Kelly told skysports.com.

"To go to Turin and play them there is exciting.

"You don't get games against Juventus too often so you have to grab them with both hands.

"We had a great result against Shaktar Donetsk in the last round and we will go to Juventus with confidence."


White Noise

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11681_6013779,00.html

FA confirm semi-final dates


Blues v Villa first up for semis weekend


Last updated: 10th March 2010   


The Football Association has confirmed the kick-off times and dates for next month's FA Cup semi-finals at Wembley.

The games had already been set for the weekend of 10/11th April, but the FA have now revealed when the ties will be played.

Chelsea's clash with Aston Villa is the first semi-final to take place on Saturday, 10th April at 5pm.

The weekend's other tie sees Portsmouth face Tottenham or Fulham - who will replay their quarter-final on 24th March following their goalless draw at Craven Cottage - with that game taking place at 4pm on Sunday, 11th April.

The showpiece final takes place on 15th May to give England more time to prepare for this summer's World Cup finals.

White Noise

http://www.goal.com/en/news/10/italy/2010/03/10/1826550/juventus-coach-alberto-zaccheroni-im-thinking-about-fulham

Juventus Coach Alberto Zaccheroni: I'm Thinking About Fulham, Not The Future


The coach preferred to talk about on-field matters...


By Salvatore Landolina


Mar 10, 2010 2:15:00 PM


Alberto Zaccheroni insists he is only thinking about the Europa League tie with Fulham, rather than his future at Juventus.

"The result against Fiorentina gives us stimulation to progress beacuse we have been doing well," he told the press.

"As for the Juventus bench, I prefer not to talk about this because it's not part of my actual objectives. My objective now is the match against Fulham

"And I hope to continue doing well until the end of the season. Also, I hope to have most of my squad back following injuries.

"We want to do well in the Europa League and we have respect for Fulham, who have been doing well in the Premier League and in Europe."

So well in fact that Zaccheroni's cautious approach to the game is clear.

"Fulham are a tough team and they know how to control the game and take advantage when they have their chances," he concluded.

The last 16 first leg clash kicks off at 21:05CET on Thursday night in Turin.

Midfielder Mauro Camoranesi should be in contention after returning from injury.

White Noise

http://www.imscouting.com/global-news-article/Juventus-v-Fulham-Europa-League-preview/6377/



Juventus v Fulham – Europa League preview


March 10, 2010

 
In all likelihood, this will be a close tie.  However, the very idea that Fulham could take on Juventus would have been unthinkable a mere 14 seasons ago.  The 1995-6 season was a memorable one for Juventus, with the 'Old Lady' capturing the European Cup, beating Ajax in the final.  The same season saw Ian Branfoot's Fulham languishing towards the bottom of England's basement division at one of the lowest ebbs in the club's history.

The interim period has seen an incredible rise in Fulham's fortunes.  However, a potentially close clash between one of the giants of Italian football and a mid-table English side also demonstrates the primacy of the Premier League over Serie A in recent years.

Juventus are enduring a tough season.  Coach Alberto Zaccheroni has overseen a real improvement in the Turin side's form since taking over as short-term coach in January.  Juventus were struggling for a place in the top six in Serie A when the 56-year-old arrived and currently fifth in the league standings with 44 points from 27 league matches, things have improved since his arrival.

Juventus were given a tricky tie in the last round of the Europa League as they were pitted against Dutch giants and opponents in that 1996 European Cup final, Ajax.  A measure of the progress under Zaccheroni is their relatively straightforward progress against Ajax, having won the first leg 2-1 in Amsterdam.  

Fulham have virtually no pedigree in Europe.  But, in Roy Hodgson, they have a wily manager with an excellent knowledge of European football, whose name commands respect in Italy following his successful tenure at Inter Milan.  Fulham are enjoying a very good season, especially considering they only escaped Premier League relegation by a whisker two seasons ago.  They are in a comfortable tenth position in the Premier League and face an FA Cup replay against Tottenham to secure a semi-final appearance at Wembley.  

They will be missing captain Danny Murphy after he saw red in the last round of the Europa League, as Fulham knocked out holders Shakhtar Donetsk.  Both Nicky Shorey and Stefano Okaka are ineligible for selection while Andy Johnson, Clint Dempsey and John Pantsil are long term absentees.  However, in Bobby Zamora , Fulham possess a striker in a rich vein of form who will be determined to prove himself against Europe's finest to push for a place in England's World Cup squad.

Juventus have injury concerns over goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon and centre back Giorgio Chiellini among others.  Nonetheless, they will expect to line up with the likes of David Trezeguet , Allesandro Del Piero and Fabio Cannavaro.  

Juventus have the luxury of genuinely world class players to choose from.  Despite the team's problems this season, household names like Del Piero and Trezeguet pose the biggest threat to Fulham, as shown by the IMScouting efficiency report below.  They are two of the most dangerous attacking players on either side and Fulham boss Roy Hodgson must prevent his side from giving them too much respect in order to leave Turin with a chance of progression to the next round.

IMScouting's Player Efficiency reports include players who have appeared in a minimum of 500 minutes in the league and equally values a goal or assist. A player's efficiency is valued at how often he has produced a goal or assist.

Further statistics on the clash between Juventus and Fulham can be seen at this match preview.

You can also calculate your own reports at the IMScouting report generator, which creates instant comparisons of players and teams from every league in the world.



White Noise

http://fulhampatsfan.blogspot.com/2010/03/fulham-back-in-europa-league-tomorrow.html

Fulham back in Europa League tomorrow at Juventus

Fulham will be back in action tomorrow in Turin Italy against Juventus. The kickoff is 3:05 EST from the Stadio Olimpico. The second leg will take place next Thursday at Craven Cottage. Roy Hogdson and Fulham will have their hand's full with this top Italian team.

Fulham will be without Danny Murphy who will be suspended for the match. Jonathan Greening should be in his place in the midfield. It will be interesting to see who Hogdson will go with in his starting lineup. Nicky Shorey and Stefano Okaka are both cup tied and can't participate in the match. John Pantsil and Clint Dempsey are still hurt and hopefully we will be seeing there returns later in the season.

There is a good article entitled "Europa League: Preview Juventus - Fulham" on goal.com. Everyone should check this out to get ready for the match. This game will be a tough task for Fulham. I personally will be happy if they get an away goal. These are exciting times for the Cottagers. After this match tomorrow, Roy Hogdson's team heads to Old Trafford to face Manchester United on Sunday.


Posted by Fulham-Pats Fan at 9:47 AM

White Noise

http://football.fanhouse.co.uk/2010/03/10/juventus-v-fulham-preview-jonathan-greening-prepares-for-key-ro/

Juventus v Fulham Preview: Jonathan Greening Prepares For Key Role In Turin

10/3/2010 10:30 AM GMT

By Dean Jones



EUROPA LEAGUE: STADIO OLIMPICO DI TORINO, THURSDAY MARCH 11, 2010, KICK-OFF 2005 GMT

A trip to Juventus once seemed beyond the wildest dreams of any Fulham supporter, but as they continue their adventure on the continent it seems nothing can faze their players.

A Europa League tie in Turin not only brings home the full extent of Roy Hodgson's success in West London, but also hands an incredible opportunity to Jonathan Greening, who is in line to deputise for suspended captain Danny Murphy in midfield.

Murphy was sent off as Fulham progressed through to the last 16 with a 3-2 aggregate success against the UEFA Cup holders Shakhtar Donetsk.

Greening now has the responsibility of overcoming one of the most respected sides in the history of Italian football, but he refuses to be overawed.

"It's just what dreams are made of," Greening said, as he set off for Turin. "If we can put in a good performance like we did against Shakhtar – then everything is possible.

"We're well prepared under the gaffer because everyone knows their jobs. I knew we would be in Europe this year and that's one of the reasons I came to Fulham.

"Danny's captain and has been playing well – but it gives me a chance to come in and do well. Every player wants to play in these type of games."

Manager Hodgson took Inter Milan to the UEFA Cup final in 1997, and will realise success here would leave his Fulham side in the frame to reach their first ever European final.

Defender John Pantsil said: "He has time for each and every player. He has changed the team, he has lifted the team to a certain level. His training makes us feel more relaxed and more comfortable with our positions on the pitch. He is experienced. He knows how to coach his players to play European football."

Strategy: It would be tempting to sit back and frustrate the Italians, but on the evidence of past showings in Europe this season Fulham will try and take the game to Juve. Bobby Zamora will provide a presence in attack that Fulham will use as their focal point, with Damien Duff being told to take on his full-back and deliver as many crosses as possible from every angle in a bid to cause havoc in the Juve back line.

Injury update: Paul Konchesky is back in the reckoning following a spell on the sidelines with a calf and ankle problem, while the game is also likely to come slightly too soon for Clint Dempsey. Pantsil remains in the treatment room with a knee problem, and forward Andrew Johnson is out for the rest of the season.

JUVENTUS:
The Old Lady have won only one of their last six European home games. That came against Maccabi Haifa as they picked up a 1-0 win in this season's UEFA Champions League group stage.

Four of their other home encounters have ended in a draw, giving Fulham extra reason to believe they can take something from the game.

Coach Alberto Zaccheroni came on board recently, and though he is not considered a long term appointment, his impact has been impressive and Juve have moved up to fifth in Serie A.

They beat Ajax in the last round, but will be missing key midfield player Felipe Melo through suspension for the first-leg.