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Thursday Fulham Stuff (03/11/11)...

Started by WhiteJC, November 03, 2011, 06:23:51 AM

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WhiteJC

 
Clint Dempsey targets Europa League run



Clint Dempsey admits Fulham need points from tonight's Europa League encounter with Wisla Krakow if they are to progress to the knockout stages.

The Cottagers are expected to name a strong line-up to face the Polish champions as they look to avoid a repeat of their 1-0 defeat in Poland.

The result at Stadion Miejski leaves the Cottagers second in Group K, three points behind Dutch outfit FC Twente and just a point ahead of both Odense BK and tonight's opponents Wisla.

"You never want to lose and because the table is so tight we need to win," Dempsey said.

"We need to get points as you don't want to be waiting until the last game to get our of the group stage. We're going to do everything we can to win the game.

"While the league is most important, so too is this competition as you want to be a part of as many competitions as you can. To play in these games gives you great memories.

"I mean getting to the Europa League final the last time we were in it is something I will never forget and hopefully we can have a nice little run. It is nice to be able to play in this competition as it allows you to play different teams from all over [Europe]."

Dempsey was rested for the first match with Wisla, which was marred by Moussa Dembele's controversial sending off.

The incident occurred when an innocuous passage of play flared up in Poland, with Dembele pushing over Wisla's Gervasio Nunez after he caught him on the back of the ankle.

The Argentinian midfielder went down clutching his face despite being pushed at shoulder height, leading referee Martin Hansson to hand the Belgium international a straight red card.

Dempsey watched the match on television but, while annoyed by the decision, remained philosophical about it.

"It is frustrating to see but what can you do about it? The ref made a decision that he felt was right.

"Things, though, don't always happen the way you want and now we can only concentrate on tonight's game. We need to take advantage of having the same amount of players as they do and play the football the way we know we can. Then, hopefully, we can get the right result."



http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/standard-sport/football/article-24005473-clint-dempsey-targets-europa-league-run.do?

WhiteJC

 
Europa League previews

Fulham v Wisla Krakow
Martin Jol will name a strong side although he will be without Moussa Dembele. The Belgium international was sent off in the away tie so is banned for tonight's match and is joined on the sidelines by Orlando Sa (hamstring). Philippe Senderos and Aaron Hughes (both thigh) are out.

Kick-off: 8.05pm. TV Live on Five



http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/competitions/europa-league/8866476/Europa-League-previews.html?

WhiteJC

 
Up next: Wisla Krakow (h)
by DAN on NOVEMBER 3, 2011



Fulham's progress to the knockout stages of the Europa League was upset by a disappointing defeat in Krakow a couple of weeks ago and the sending off of Moussa Dembele, which so angered Martin Jol. The disgraceful play-acting of Gervasio Nunez means that Jol will be without the Belgian – a scorer at Wigan on Saturday – as the only mechanism for appealing against a UEFA red card is when mistaken identity is involved.

Speaking at the pre-match press conference yesterday, both Jol and midfielder Clint Dempsey underlined the importance of tonight's fixture for keeping Fulham's qualification hopes in their own hands. The Fulham boss has rotated his side regularly during the European competition this year – soething that became necessary once their season started in June – but he will field something approaching his strongest side for the visit of Poles given the tightness of Group K.

That should see Dempsey, who was rested for the reverse fixture, return to the Fulham midfield alongside skipper Danny Murphy, who was also left at home for the trip to Poland. Striker Bobby Zamora, who has also been a bit-part player in Europe so far, should lead the line and will be hoping to rekindle the form that fired Fulham all the way to the final a couple of seasons ago. Zamora has seemingly lacked the sharpness that marked his return from injury last season so far – and it remains to be seen whether he will operate as a loan striker this evening. Jol has favoured the 4-2-3-1 formation since he took over at Craven Cottage, but Zamora's partnership with Andy Johnson has flourished when the pair have been used together.

Johnson could continue in the first eleven even if Zamora plays up front on his own, reprising his role as an advanced midfielder, which worked well at Wigan – although Jol might settle on a 4-4-2 given the need for press for a win tonight. Fulham are definitely without Orlando Sa, who injured in his hamstring in the first game between the two sides in Poland.

Injuries will also leave Fulham's defence with a makeshift look once again. Aaron Hughes is still missing after aggravating a thigh problem in his brief substitute appearance against Everton eleven days ago, while Philippe Senderos has been ruled out with a similar injury. It means that Chris Baird, impressive in the away win at the DW Stadium at the weekend, should continue at centre back alongside Brede Hangeland and Zdenek Grygera will feature again at right-back. Jol's only decision in midfield will be whether to opt for the added bite of Dickson Etuhu or the guile of Steve Sidwell, who played in Dembele for the clinching second goal at Wigan on Saturday. Young Kerim Frei, who has enjoyed some fleeting cameos so far this season in Europe and the League Cup, may well be amongst the substitutes once again.

Wisla's narrow win over Fulham has revived their own hopes of qualifying through the group stages after their own campaign began with a disappointing home defeat by Odense on matchday one. The Poles come to London confident that they can be the first team to defeat Fulham on home turf in 21 European matches. They will look to the likes of forwards David Bilton, who scored the winner in Krakow, and Ivica Iliev – man of the match in that contest – to unlock a Fulham defence that has proved miserly in Europe so far this season.

MY FULHAM XI (4-4-2): Schwarzer; Grygera, Briggs, Hangeland, Baird; Etuhu, Murphy, Dempsey, Duff; Zamora, Johnson. Subs: Etheridge, Kelly, J.A. Riise, Gecov, Sidwell, Kasami, Frei.



http://hammyend.com/index.php/2011/11/up-next-wisla-krakow-h/?


WhiteJC

 
Fulham v Wisla Krakow preview
Cottagers looking to stretch unbeaten record on home soil

Fulham will put their impressive home record in European football on the line when they play host to Wisla Krakow.

The Cottagers are unbeaten in 21 continental clashes at Craven Cottage stretching back to 2002.

They have won 16 of those games and a 1-1 draw with FC Twente on Matchday One this season ended a run of nine straight victories on home soil.

That contest also represented the first time they have conceded in front of their own supporters in Europe this year.

Martin Jol will be hoping for another productive showing from his side on Thursday, with Fulham looking to strengthen their grip on second place in Group K.

Progress to the knockout stage is the target for the Cottagers, but they need to avoid the danger of burning out.

They have already played 11 games in Europe this season and are the only side left in the competition to have made it through from the first qualifying round.

While Fulham will be strong favourites at Craven Cottage, Wisla know they have what it takes to overcome Jol's troops.

They prevailed 1-0 in the reverse fixture last time out, picking up their first victory of the group stage in the process.

Wisla have won two of their four away games in Europe this season, during the qualifying rounds, but have struggled on the road in previous group campaigns.

Team news

Fulham manager Jol is expected to name a strong side in midweek.

The Cottagers will be looking to avoid a repeat of their defeat in Poland and edge closer to the next round, but they will be without Moussa Dembele.
The Belgium international was sent off in the away tie so is banned for Thursday's match.

He is joined on the sidelines by Orlando Sa (hamstring), Philippe Senderos and Aaron Hughes (both thigh).

Wisla are hoping that three of their key men will be passed fit to play.

Milan Jovanovic, Marko Jovanovic and Ivica Iliev have all travelled to London despite carrying slight knocks.



http://www.skysports.com/football/match_preview/0,19764,11065_3447365,00.html?

WhiteJC

 
Dempsey Preview

Fulham's Clint Dempsey spoke to the members of the media ahead of this evening's crucial UEFA Europa League match against Wisla Krakow at Craven Cottage and the US international star in confident Fulham can strengthen their position in Group K tonight.

Q: Clint, you missed the last game in Poland, how loudly did you scream at the television?

A: It was frustrating to see but what can you do? The referee made the decision, he thought it was right. It was a lot of hard work for our guys being a man down and going a goal down trying to get a result.

It was unfair for them not to get a draw because that would have been a nice result after dealing with that.

Things don't always happen the way you want but all we can do is get ready for the next game and take advantage of having the same number of players as they do and play the football we can and get the right result.

Q: Mousa accepts he should not have raised his hand and the Argentinean shouldn't dive the way he did. Have you as a group been warned about how you must deal with these sorts of players?

A: You know you must learn from what happens in game. We must be on our best behaviour as always, we have a lot of honest guys on the team.

We get stuck into challenges but we don't go out to hurt players and I think our record shows that. That's why we are in the competition; because of fair play. We try and play in the right spirit and that will never change.

Q: You never resort to trying to win free kicks. That's not the English game?

A: We try to play the right way. There are certain incidents in games where you barely get touched or you might get hit a little bit harder and you go down. Maybe because of fatigue but you don't do it theatrically, that's not how we operate. We play in the right spirit and play good football. We're an honest, hard-working team who go out to play football and work hard.

Q: Players and supporters can get too wrapped up in revenge after what happened in Krakow but you must just focus on the game?

A: Yes we want the result. That's what we are thinking about - getting the points. We want to advance out of the group, that's our goal.

Q: Do you feel a sense of achievement getting through to the competition via the fair play award? Does it mean anything to you as players?

A: I think we would have rather got in through finishing higher in the league so we wouldn't have to play as many games to get to the group stages. Ideally that's not how we wanted to get in.

Q: Did you think you may have blown it last year as you picked up a few bookings towards the end of the season?

A: It's one of those things you don't know until you find out. I think some of the boys knew it may have been close but we are in the competition and we find ourselves in a good position if we get two results.

Q: I think I'm right in saying you've reached Brian McBride's record for goals in the Premier League?

A: It's good to be in his sort of company seeing as he is a forward and I'm an outside midfielder. And, I like to score goals and help the team out. It's great to get to those numbers. Hopefully I can keep pushing it higher and there will be other milestones I can reach.

Q: With the Europa is it a bit non-stop?

A: No, I want to play as much as I can and make the most of my career as you never know how long it will last. You have to pace yourself and be smart in that respect but at the same time, if you feel good then play as much as you can.

Q: Is there a fear with all these games in Europe at the start that it might eventually catch up with you?

A: That's a good question. We'll have to wait and see how the guys are feeling. The more we keep them healthy and the deeper the squad available for the games, the better for us. You never know when you will be in a Europe competition again, we have been fortunate enough to be in it twice already, but since I have been here, it will be 5 years in January, you always want to make the most of being in the competition.

Q: Thursday's match is a must-win for Fulham as then you travel to Twente who are top of the group?

A: I think it is definitely a must win for us as we need the points. Like I said you don't want to wait until the last game where you need a win and have to rely on other results to go your way. Destiny is in our hands and we can get the result tomorrow night. Hopefully we can get out of the group stage and go on a run and make the most of being in the competition.

Q: Do you still feel you can catch Twente at the top of the group or is it just about qualification for you guys?

A: You want to the best you can do and see where each game takes you but you don't want to wait until the end and have the last game as a must-win to try and advance out of the group. We want to advance out of the group and to win it would be the icing on the cake.



Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/November/DempseyWislaPreview.aspx?#ixzz1cdzClZVy

WhiteJC

 
Fulham handed striker boost



ORLANDO Sa is set to return to training next week as he battles to overcome a hamstring problem.

The Fulham frontman has been sidelined for the past fortnight after limping out of the Europa League defeat against Wisla Krakow last month.

But boss Martin Jol hopes the Portuguese ace will be able to resume sessions at the club's Motspur Park training ground next week.

The striker should be in contention to return to action for Fulham's Premier League clash with Sunderland on November 19.



Read More http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/11/03/fulham-handed-striker-boost-82029-29712951/?#ixzz1cdzWpkA2


WhiteJC

 
Opposition Update

Craven Cottage hosted Wisla Krakow's pre-match press conference and training session on Wednesday evening and Fulham's Polish opposition certainly endured a tough time on their travels to London ahead of tonight's game.

"Let me please start with three announcements about our trip to London," said Wisła Krakow's spokesman on Wednesday night. "First of all, the airport in Kraków was closed [caused by the fog] and we had to travel to Katowice Airport. Then, already in London, our Polish bus driver didn't know the way to the ground. But most importantly, we have three players absent at the moment as they are still at the airport and not allowed to enter the UK."

With Milan Jovanić, Marko Jovanović and striker Ivica Iliev all stopped at the airport due to invalid working visas to the UK, Wisla Krakow's  17-member squad was reduced to 14 men, with only one goalkeeper eligible to play in Estonian Sergei Pareiko. Fortunately for Wisla their three Serbian players eventually re-joined their team-mates late yesterday evening.

Cezary Wilk, Wisła's temporary captain, claimed it was his dream to play in England on Wednesday night. "It's a dream come true but the most important thing is to win the game," said Wilk. "There won't be a better moment to break the run of poor games for us."



Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/November/WislaKrakowPreview.aspx?#ixzz1cdznDeWB

WhiteJC

 
Cottagers clash before youth cup starts

Charlton U18s kick off a big week for the academy with a derby at Fulham on Saturday (11am).

The Addicks returned to action last Saturday after a weekend without a game, and suffered a 2-1 defeat against Arsenal at Sparrows Lane.

So they will aim to bounce back to winning ways against the Cottagers before kicking off their FA Youth Cup campaign at Soham Town Rangers less than 48 hours later.

Academy director Paul Hart and academy manager Steve Avory opted not to investigate moving the Fulham fixture on the schedule, so the club's youngsters are braced for a busy few days.

And Avory admitted the duo had to administer some strong words at half-time of the defeat against Arsenal.

The Addicks were far from their fluent selves in the opening period, and found themselves a goal down thanks to Anthony Jeffrey's strike eight minutes before the break.

"You would expect Arsenal to have some good periods of possession football, because they have players who can build from the back and play good one or two-touch football and support each other well," said Steve.

"They got a grip of the game very early on, and the disappointing thing was that we were standing off them a little bit too much, particularly in the midfield areas. It wasn't as though they really created anything and got in behind us, though.

"The first goal was evidence that we didn't get close enough and that was an occasion on the edge of the box when we stood off their player, which allowed him the chance to get a good shot away."

There was plenty to ponder at the break, with Avory adding: "We had to have some sharp words with the lads at half-time, which has not been something we have had to do regularly throughout this season.

"We changed the shape as well, and to the player's credit, they responded, but we don't want it to be that way.

"They have got to be on the front foot ready for the physical confrontation and challenges from the first minute."

After Tobi Sho-Silva levelled matters, a rejuvenated Charlton looked a good bet to go on and win the game, particularly when Adebayo Azeez was sent clear to round the Gunners goalkeeper, only to have his shot cleared off the line by a defender.

To make matters worse, Arsenal, largely second best in the second period, hit back in the closing stages and grabbed the winner 10 minutes from time.

"We decided we would try to get an earlier ball into our front players after the break, and, most importantly, we wanted to make sure we won the ball more often and didn't allow Arsenal the same kind of room," continued Steve.

"We deservedly got the equaliser, having threatened since the restart, and in that 10-minute period after the equaliser I thought we would go on to win the game. I think everyone at the game thought we had won it with Ade's chance, but it wasn't to be."

Fulham, who rose to the top of their regional group with a win against West Ham United last weekend, are next on the agenda for a Charlton side that has suffered just one away loss this season.

"This group is a very tight group, and I noticed after last weekend's games that there are only two points between the top five," noted Avory.

"All the games in this section are tough games, and that continues with Fulham.

"The way the results went on Saturday meant we dropped down a little bit, but we've got an excellent opportunity over these next two weeks.

"We've got a fantastic seven days to look forward to in terms of matches. We have Fulham, who at the moment are riding high at the top, then the FA Youth Cup, which everybody looks forward to every season, and then we have Crystal Palace, who are in second place at the moment."

Charlton last met Fulham in pre-season, when Joe Pigott hit a hat-trick in a 4-0 victory at Motspur Park. Sho-Silva was also on target that day and the Addicks claimed four points against the Cottagers last season.

At Motspur Park on November 6th last year, Sho Silva's 30th-minute goal proved decisive in a 1-0 success, and honours ended even between the two sides at Sparrows Lane in April thanks to a late leveller from Harry Osborne.

Avory continued: "The pitch there is fantastic and they have some good facilities.

"We played very well in our final pre-season match against them back in August. That gave us every right to be confident about the season, but that's gone now.

"We are 10 matches in now, and we've noticed that Fulham have had a good start to the season. I'm not surprised by that because they have got some good players. Their academy manager Kit Symons always has them very well organised."

After Fulham, it's off to Julius Martin Lane to take on Soham in the first round of the FA Youth Cup on Monday (7.45pm).

Tickets are priced £3 adults and £2 concessions for the game, which comes hot on the heels of the league clash against Fulham, and a full preview of the cup match will appear on the official website on Monday morning.



http://www.cafc.co.uk/page/academydetail/0,,10267~2503970,00.html?

WhiteJC

 
Momo Diame Fit For Sunday

Wigan Athletics midfield man Momo Diame is set to make a return to the team for Sunday's clash with Wolves, the Senegal international looked to have suffered a serious injury when Fulham midfield hatchet man Steve Sidwell cleaned him out in the 12th minute of last Saturday's game.

Surprisingly super efficient referee Mike Jones didn't even deem the challenge worthy of a free kick never mind a red card, which should have been the punishment issued to Sidwell for such a deliberate act.

Latics boss Roberto Martinez was left incensed by the challenge but he was a relieved man this week when the news came that his star player was set to be fine for Sundays important clash at Molineux.

Speaking to the Latics official site Martinez said:'There was a feeling of relief yesterday (Monday) when we got the feedback from Momo's injury'

'When we saw the footage and the images after the game we all feared the worst, but he's been a very fortunate man that when Steve Sidwell makes the challenge Momo's foot is off the ground otherwise it would have been a certain broken leg.

'The damage he did suffer in the ankle ligaments has recovered very well and we hope that he'll resume training with the group before Sunday and he's got a chance of making the team.'




Read more: http://www.wigan.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=261254#ixzz1ce8HWi95


WhiteJC

 
Huddersfield Town boss not applying for Leicester City job


Clark joined Huddersfield as manager in 2008

Huddersfield Town manager Lee Clark says he will not be applying for the vacant job at Leicester City.

The 38-year-old has been linked with replacing Sven-Goran Eriksson.

But Clark told BBC Radio Leeds: "I'm not applying for any job - I'm a Huddersfield manager working for a fantastic man and a fantastic board.

"Whether it's just to fill areas in newspapers, I don't know, but there has certainly not been any contact with me or my representatives."

Leeds United manager Simon Grayson has also denied being interested in taking charge at the King Power Stadium.

He said: "It's a club that's very close to my heart but this club is far closer to my heart.

"I've had an affiliation with Leicester in the past, but my sole aim is to do well for Leeds.

"I'm totally focused on Leeds and that focus has never dwindled during my time at the club.


"I'm delighted things are going well here and I want to continue doing the job I've set out to do."

Former England Under-21 international Clark, who signed a new contract with the League One promotion hopefuls in July, added: "I've never had a phone call from Dean [Hoyle, the Huddersfield chairman] or [chief executive] Nigel Clibbens, to say that they've had contact.

"I'm here - I've never heard anything about any other job and that's the way it is.

"It's the same when my players get linked and you ask me. I think everyone should be proud inside the club if that's the case because it means we're doing something right.

Huddersfield drew 2-2 with Scunthorpe on Tuesday to extend their unbeaten run to 40 games.

And Clark added: "As you can see I was totally committed like always. I'm delighted we've made 40, and I'll be at the training ground in preparation for another tough game on Saturday."



http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/15457472.stm

WhiteJC

 
Opta Stats: Fulham v Tottenham Hotspur

The stats point to another three points for a Spurs team who love playing against Fulham

Fulham have failed to score in four of the last five Premier League matches with Tottenham.

Fulham have had one player booked in each of the last six Premier League games against Spurs.

The Cottagers have won just one of the last 10 Premier League games against Tottenham, losing four.

Martin Jol was Tottenham manager between November 2004 and October 2007, winning 47 of 113 Premier League matches (42%).

Rafael van der Vaart has scored six goals in his last five league games.

Having lost their opening two league games, Tottenham have won six and drawn one of their last seven (a run that started when Scott Parker made his debut for Spurs).

Fulham have only won two of their last 22 London derbies, but one of them came in their last London derby at Craven Cottage (6-0 v Queens Park Rangers).

Clint Dempsey has won more fouls than any other Premier League player this season (27).

Luka Modric should make his 100th Premier League appearances for Spurs in this game.

No side has been shown more yellow cards in the Premier League this season than the Cottagers (26, joint with Chelsea).



http://betting.betfair.com/football/opta/opta-stats-fulham-v-tottenham-hotspur-031111.html?

WhiteJC

 
Clark staying at Huddersfield as Leicester close in on United legend Keane


Job to do: Lee Clark is staying at Huddersfield

Lee Clark has dismissed reports he is set to leave Huddersfield for the vacant manager's post at Leicester - leaving the door open for Roy Keane.

Clark and Keane were among the bookies' favourites for the Foxes job since Sven Goran Eriksson was sacked last week.

Clark has been attracting attention since leading Town, unbeaten in 16 League One games, to second in the table.

But he will not be succeeding Swede Eriksson at the King Power Stadium.

He said: 'We have woken up to another round of media speculation this morning regarding me and it is now escalating on a daily basis.

'I have tried not to comment on it up until this point as that is all it has been - speculation. I didn't want to give any substance to it. For me, it has been a case of business as usual this week.

'However, the speculation hasn't gone away and I apologise to anyone if not commenting on this earlier has caused any issues for the supporters. Regardless, now is the time that I want to put these rumours to an end.

'Obviously on a personal level it is satisfying to be linked to jobs at clubs in a higher division, but that is all I take from these links. Players get linked to other clubs when they are doing well and you have to take it as a compliment in that sense.


Gone: Sven Goran Eriksson was shown the door at Leicester City

'As I have also said, I believe these rumours are a compliment to Huddersfield Town too and we should take it as a positive that our success is catching the attention of people in the game outside of our area.

'However, I want to reiterate that I am 100 per cent committed to the Owner, the fans and the players at Huddersfield Town and I am totally focused on continuing this magnificent start to the season and getting this Club promoted.

'I am not interested in the Leicester vacancy.'

Former Newcastle midfielder Clark took the reins at Huddersfield in December 2008 after working as assistant to Glenn Roeder at Norwich.

Former Manchester United captain Keane wants the Leicester job having been without a club since he was sacked by Ipswich at the start of this year.



Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2057083/Lee-Clark-staying-Huddersfield-Leicester-close-Roy-Keane.html#ixzz1ceMwayBp


WhiteJC

 
Pardew, Clark or Powell: who will be the next England manager?

Okay, if the next England manager has to be English, who do we choose?  Here are some of the English manager currently employed as football managers (seems like a good filter), in order of preference (some rational, some not):

Alan Pardew – hmmmmmmmmmmm.

Lee Clark – knows how to win, was a good player, should be a dark horse, but ideally would have managed and succeeded in the Premiership. In that sense could've done with the Newcastle job.

Sam Allardyce – much as I hate the stereotyping of Allardyce as a manager, there's obviously substance in the complaints about his style.  He is good at what he does, but this would send out the wrong messages to England fans. When sam hangs up his jacket he'll look back on a strong but under-appreciated career. If he wants to be an international manager, though, I think he'll be disappointed.

Chris Powell – interesting. I'd appoint him. Former Chairman of the PFA, actually played for England, and, much as I hate to say it (it should be – and will be – about merit) there's the minority angle. His Charlton side are going well and it would be a welcome shift from the 'famous person' approach to hiring

Roy Hodgson – probably not after Liverpool. He was fantastic with Switzerland though and absent any other strong candidates the FA could do a lot worse.  They won't go down this road though because Hodgson's image has been tarnished by what happened at Anfield. Also England needs to be younger, more dynamic, and I don't know if Roy's the man for that.

Tony Mowbray – nice man, good football, but has he learned to defend? (this view may be out of date)

Brian McDermott – done surprisingly well at Reading and by all accounts very likeable. Not the sort of appointment we'd ever make but could do worse.

Nigel Clough – would be nice but hasn't shown he can win

Ian Holloway – would be fun but probably lacks requisite sophistication. Should probably start wearing glasses or something.

Harry Redknapp – Keegan all over again (a motivator, not a tactician), but with added 'character' question marks. I wouldn't...

Nigel Adkins – doing well at Southampton

Phil Brown – underrated – he achieved a lot at Hull – but obviously a no.

Simon Grayson – not setting the world alight at Leeds is he?

Paul Jewell – no.

Eddie Howe – no.

Micky Adams – nice as it would be, no.

Steve Bruce – doesn't really seem to have a clue. Buys his teams and no obvious plan. No.

Neil Warnock – ha, no.

Nigel Pearson – won over half his games when in charge of Leicester, but otherwise his CV isn't glittering

Others to throw into the mix: Steve Coppell wouldn't do it, Steve McLaren... oh, no, Gary Lineker (!), Paul Ince... oh I don't know.  It's not great is it?

A lot of these names will never be considered.  But it's not like the famous people have done better, is it?



http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2011/11/03/pardew-clark-or-powell-who-will-be-the-next-england-manager/?

WhiteJC

 
Fulham star hoping for right result against Wisla Krakow

"We need to take advantage of having the same amount of players as they do and play the football the way we know we can"

Fulham midfielder Clint Dempsey is looking for the club to put their disappointment over Mousa Dembele's red card at Wisla Krakow behind them when the two sides meet again tonight.

Dembele was shown a straight red card for pushing Gervasio Nunez in the shoulder, although the Krakow player made a meal of the incident which helped get the Belgian international sent off.

Dempsey, who didn't travel to Poland, is looking for Fulham to get the right result against the Polish side.

"It is frustrating to see but what can you do about it? The ref made a decision that he felt was right," he said.

"Things, though, don't always happen the way you want and now we can only concentrate on tonight's game.

"We need to take advantage of having the same amount of players as they do and play the football the way we know we can. Then, hopefully, we can get the right result."



http://www.london24.com/sport/fulham/fulham_star_hoping_for_right_result_against_wisla_krakow_1_1116574?

Mr Fulham

Quote from: WhiteJC on November 03, 2011, 06:28:41 AM

However, his agent, Hasan Cetinyaka has denied that the trip is planned and was quick to dismiss the stories about Fulham's interest.

He said: "I can not confirm that it is even Fulham. There may be two others. Perhaps Tottenham and Arsenal. It could be Everton."


Sounds weird, but that's Fulham done and dusted then. He's just trying to up the salaries. Oh these cocky agents.


WhiteJC

 
Dempsey: Fulham need to Krak whip

Clint Dempsey admits Fulham need points from tonight's Europa League encounter with Wisla Krakow if they are to progress to the knockout stages.

The Cottagers are expected to name a strong line-up to face the Polish champions as they look to avoid a repeat of their 1-0 defeat in Poland.

The result at Stadion Miejski leaves the Cottagers second in Group K, three points behind Dutch outfit FC Twente and just a point ahead of both Odense BK and tonight's opponents Wisla.

"You never want to lose and because the table is so tight we need to win," Dempsey said.

"We need to get points as you don't want to be waiting until the last game to get our of the group stage.

"We're going to do everything we can to win the game.

"While the league is most important, so too is this competition as you want to be a part of as many competitions as you can.

"To play in these games gives you great memories.

"I mean getting to the Europa League final the last time we were in it is something I will never forget and hopefully we can have a nice little run.

"It is nice to be able to play in this competition as it allows you to play different teams from all over [Europe]."

Dempsey was rested for the first match with Wisla, which was marred by Moussa Dembele's controversial sending off.

The incident occurred when an innocuous passage of play flared up in Poland, with Dembele pushing over Wisla's Gervasio Nunez after he caught him on the back of the ankle.

The Argentinian midfielder went down clutching his face despite being pushed at shoulder height, leading referee Martin Hansson to hand the Belgium international a straight red card.

Dempsey watched the match on television but, while annoyed by the decision, remained philosophical about it.

"It is frustrating to see but what can you do about it? The ref made a decision that he felt was right.

"Things, though, don't always happen the way you want and now we can only concentrate on tonight's game.

"We need to take advantage of having the same amount of players as they do and play the football the way we know we can. Then, hopefully, we can get the right result."

Wisla's preparation for tonight's match did not go smoothly, with visa problems delaying the arrival at the team hotel of Serbian trio Milan Jovanic, Marko Jovanovic and Ivica Iliev.

Coach Robert Maaskant told his club's official website ,www.wisla.krakow.pl: "We hope the problems with visas will be solved, and this trio will be able to play. We came here for a favorable outcome but it won't be easy."



http://msn.foxsports.com/foxsoccer/europaleague/story/fulham-v-wisla-krakow-clint-dempsey-europa-league-110311?

WhiteJC

 
Fulham v Wisla Krakow: Match Preview



Fulham v Wisla Krakow;Europa League;Craven Cottage;Thurs, 3rd Nov; 2005 KO

Team news

Fulham are without Moussa Dembele, who was sent off in the side's last tie and is banned for this match. Olando Sa (hamstring), Phillipe Senderos (thigh) and Aaron Hughes (thigh) are also out of contention. Otherwise, Martin Jol is expected to select a strong squad.

For Wisla, Milan Jovanovic, Marko Jovanovic and Ivica Iliev have all suffered knocks and are waiting to pass a fitness test to play.

Jol won't sanction acting

Martin Jol says he won't be encouraging his players to dive in tonight's Europa League match with Wisla Krakow, despite Fulham suffering at the hands of play-acting in their last tie with the Polish side.

Moussa Dembele was sent off last month after Gervasio Nunez fell down after a seemingly soft tackle. Nunez grabbed his face, when he was pushed at shoulder height, and Dembele was subsequently shown a red.

But Jol insists that Fulham won't play tit-for-tat tonight, as Wisla travel to Craven Cottage.

"I would have a word with [my player if they did what Nunez did] because it is not our style," he said. "You won't see that in our team.

"I felt the [referee] was quite experienced so it is about momentum.

"He has to make these decisions and probably in hindsight he would have seen it [was a mistake] because it was the fourth official that probably called it.

"It is a bit of teamwork so I don't want to blame him but it was certainly an awful match. If we had got a result we would be fine, you know?

"But we got reduced to 10 men and lost so it was almost like everything was for nothing and that was awful."

Fulham are currently second in the Group K table, and are three points adrift from FC Twente. The side desperately need a win tonight to stay in contention for the last 32.

"It is important for most of the teams to qualify, although English teams will say it is not the biggest thing in the world," he explained.

"I think Fulham raised their profile in Europe a couple of years ago when they reached the final so there is a culture in this squad that they want to do well and I agree with that.

"Twente play a weaker team in Odense so we have to take things in our hands. If we get a good result, we are halfway there."



http://www.givemefootball.com/europa-league/fulham-v-wisla-krakow-match-preview?

WhiteJC

 
Wisla wait on trio as immigration issues could prevent them from facing Fulham

Wisla Krakow have yet to find out whether their three Serbian players will be allowed to play against Fulham in the Europa League this evening.

Milan Jovanic, Marko Jovanovic and Ivica Iliev were all held at immigration on Wednesday night when the team arrived from Poland as they did not have valid visas.


Hold up: Marko Jovanovic may not face Fulham after being held up by immigration officials

The trio were eventually allowed entrance to the United Kingdom and joined up with the team at their hotel, but it is understood the club is still unsure whether they are allowed to play at Craven Cottage tonight.

As a result, Wisla flew in third-choice goalkeeper Filip Kurto this afternoon in case Novi Sad-born Jovanic is not allowed to play in west London.



Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2057150/Wisla-wait-trio-immigration-issues-prevent-facing-Fulham.html#ixzz1cepA5sOc


WhiteJC

 
No Motivation Necessary

Far from being just another routine Europa night against opponents we know little about, a certain Oscar Nunez elevates this tie to a whole new level

Yes, the aptly named Oscar is the disgraceful cheat from Wisla Krakow who got Dembele unjustly sent off two weeks ago in Poland. A crime matched only by the resounding silence on the issue coming out of Uefa's HQ in Nyon. Thursday's game at the Cottage gives Fulham the perfect opportunity to serve up the Mafia's version of retribution. What a pity we can't use the head of feeble Swedish ref Hansson for the purpose.

He will not be visible tonight thank goodness. The man with the whistle is Mr. Ozkaya from Turkey...not the most experienced on the UEFA list, he'd better be up to the task. Jol promises a near full strength side to ensure it's us and Twente who progress from this group. Any slip up tonight and Wisla will fancy sneaking ahead of us in the race for 2nd place. Our last game in this group remember promises to be our toughest - away to Twente.

What's the form guide? The Whites took points off Wigan at the weekend with a remarkable performance. Remarkable for being utterly inept and third-rate against the bottom club. Jol picks the side and he alone must take the blame. It was a massive step back from the Rangers result. Neither Dembele or AJ were playing to their strengths Saturday. Our target man received zero support, the midfield couldn't string two passes together, our left full-back looked like a pub team player. The personnel will change tonight - and for the better.

The rumour mill is gathering speed with the next transfer window less than two months away. Reports tell us Jol is pursuing one, possibly two full-backs, a striker and a winger. Need we mention a replacement for Danny too? That surely must be glaringly obvious, even to the Cottage cat. Gossip on the suggested reinforcements suggest the boss realises he has only half a team at present and one or two of his recruits have been a tad disappointing.

I plumbed the depths of despair both in Poland for the first leg, and last time out at the DW. It cannot surely be so sterile again. Under lights with a fired up crowd - and plenty of Poles around the ground from what I hear - this should be another famous Europa night for FFC - unbeaten at home in all European competition going back to 2002, a run of 21 matches. If any of our big players get whacked or see red the roof will come off, and Wisla might find themselves bushwhacked by fans on the way back to the airport...

Mark and newly crowned USA Player of the Year Clint say the team are well up for this, only a pity we have to commit our best players 4 days ahead of the Spurs derby - a match of far more importance for our season. Maybe Wisla will have their eye on the weekend too. They match up against arch rival Cracovia next, and don't to my eye look like a team that travels well. Small and nimble across the pitch, we never saw the keeper tested in Cracow, but for tonight we have to show some muscle and really get into them.



© Getty Images


I have my ticket for the Hammy End and hope you all enjoy a spirited display from our wonderful club. Get this one wrong Martin and the natives will turn ugly I can promise you! It's live on 5 and ESPN3 in the States so let's show the bigger audience the quality we clearly have in our team. Bobby to score and three points off the Polish cheats will set me up for Sunday. And for heaven's sake Martin, let's see some WIDTH.



http://blogs.soccernet.com/fulham/archives/2011/11/no_motivation_necessary.php?

WhiteJC

 
Fulham acting clever in Europe
Andy Johnson instigates a 'can't beat them join them' message for divers



After Moussa Dembele was sent off against Wisla Krakow in the Europa League a fortnight ago, many feel at the instigation of Gervasio Nunez, striker Andy Johnson has prompted his teammates to join in for some European style play acting.

"There's a lot of diving, a lot of play-acting going on. We've just got to be clever," said Johnson.

"Maybe we need to do it a bit ourselves just to keep up with these teams and make things fair."

Whether diving counts as being 'clever' remains to be seen, and it will be interesting to see if manager Martin Jol supports his striker after suggesting he would be against such antics from his players.

Johnson did throw caution to the wind however: "I think you need to be careful. You need to be a bit wiser in Europe. That's always been the case."

The former England striker's caution should have only been towards the referee, he probably should have considered his manager.

Martin Jol said earlier on, "I would have a word with [my player if they did what Nunez did] because it is not our style," he said. "You won't see that in our team."



http://www.givemefootball.com/europa-league/fulham-acting-clever-in-europe?