Wednesday Fulham Stuff (23/11/11)...

[WhiteJC]

 
Glum News

Any hopes Martin Jol has of luring the Rosenberg defender, Mikael Lustig, to Craven Cottage, look to be fading.

The grapevine is now suggesting that Glasgow Celtic are favourites to sign the defender, beating off competition from Espanyol and ourselves.

The swing in good fortune for Celtic appears to have come about after Lustig`s fellow Scandinavian, Daniel Majstorovic, promoted the virtues of living in and playing in Glasgow.

Some you win and some you lose!



Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=263268#ixzz1eVoLdHTr

[WhiteJC]

 
Reserves 1-1 Crystal Palace

Orlando Sa and Matthew Briggs both saw 90 minutes of action at Motspur Park on Tuesday afternoon as Fulham's Reserves drew with Crystal Palace in a behind-closed-doors friendly.

The match got off to an entertaining start with both sides looking to find the early opener. Fulham lined up with a somewhat unconventional defensive line featuring Bjorn Helge Riise at right-back and Josh Pritchard in central defence along with Dan Burn and Matthew Briggs.

The Whites took the lead on 11 minutes when a fluid move involving Orlando Sa and two of Fulham's three trailists on show, culminated in a fine one-touch finish beating Lewis Price in the Palace goal.

As the first-half progressed Fulham's passing game started to craft more opportunities. On 18 minutes a sublime headed lay-off from Sa set another Fulham attack in motion – the play was switched from one flank to the other allowing the ball to be worked to Marcel Gecov, whose shot from the edge of the area was blocked.

The Whites had a penalty appeal turned down 25 minutes after Sa received a searching diagonal pass only to be brought down on the edge of the six yard box.

Fulham maintained their energetic display and high work rate throughout the first-half and deservedly reached the interval a goal to the good.

However, the visitors made a strong start to the second-half and were able to play a number of crosses into the danger area before finally netting the equaliser on 57 minutes with a well-struck drive that just beat Neil Etheridge inside his near post.

A fine one-handed save from Palace custodian Lewis Price on 64 minutes denied Orlando Sa his first of the match. The Portuguese player rose well on the edge of the six yard area to send a firm header on target – only to see it palmed over.

Price produced a similar stop minutes later, but this time he thwarted Marcel Gecov's 25-yard pile driver. A goal would have crowned off a good display from the young Czech midfielder, whose urgency in the middle of the park kept Fulham's midfield ticking over.

Fulham: Etheridge; B Riise, Burn, Pritchard, Briggs; Kasami, Gecov, Trialist (Donegan 75), Trialist; Sa, Trialist (Trotta 82)

Subs Not Used: Bettinelli, Dean, Brister, Minkwitz



Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/November/ReservesvCrystalPalace.aspx?#ixzz1eVodIYnB

[WhiteJC]

 
Baird wary of 'on fire' Gunners

Chris Baird is happy to continue being Fulham's Mr Versatile - although he would prefer not mark former team-mate Theo Walcott this weekend.

The 29-year-old has lined up all across the backline for the Cottagers this season as they juggle Barclays Premier League and Europa League commitments. Baird played in an unfamiliar left-back role during Saturday's 0-0 draw at Sunderland and insists he is happy play wherever he is needed.

"I have (played across the defence) and played as left-back on Saturday," Baird said. "I don't mind where I play as long as I am in the team, playing well. That's the most important thing for me, helping the team, and hopefully that will continue."

Should Baird start at left-back once more against Arsenal on Saturday, he will likely be given the daunting task of shackling former Southampton team-mate Walcott.

The Northern Ireland international played with the 22-year-old during his short but impressive stint in the Saints' first team, which earned Walcott a £12million move to north London.

Asked whether he would relish going toe-to-toe with his former team-mate on Saturday, Baird responded: "No, no, he is very quick.

"Theo was fantastic, even at such a young age (at Southampton). Obviously he was thrown in the team but the more games he played, the more confident he got, scoring a few goals. His pace always caused defenders problems. I am glad he is doing well at Arsenal. He deserves it. He has been fantastic for them this season so it is a hard game for us.

"We will go there with our confidence and see what happens.

"Arsenal are on fire right now. They had a really poor start but they have turned it round massively.

"They have got Robin van Persie banging in the goals for them so we have to be on our game to stop him and Arsenal from getting their result."

Press Association



http://www.independent.ie/breaking-news/sport/baird-wary-of-on-fire-gunners-2942387.html?

[WhiteJC]

 
Arsenal Screening

Although tickets for Fulham's Barclays Premier League match against Arsenal at the Emirates on Saturday are now sold out, the Club will be broadcasting the match live at Craven Cottage for fans wanting to support the team from SW6.

This free screening will be held in Cafe at the Cottage, Haynes Place, with a cash bar on offer and a great selection of food available. Full details as follows:

Match: Arsenal v Fulham
Date: Saturday 26th November
Kick-off: 5:30pm
If you're planning on watching the match at the Cottage on Saturday, the Stadium Store will remain open until 5:30pm for any Christmas shoppers.

Interest is expected to be high and places are limited so those wanting to guarantee access are advised to book, simply email your name and client ref number along with the names of those attending with you to [email protected].



Note: Café at the Cottage opens at 8:30am and will remain open until 30mins after the match ends.



Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/November/ArsenalScreening.aspx?#ixzz1eVqKNbxx

[WhiteJC]

 
Baird wary of Walcott pace
Former Saints team-mates set for a reunion in the Premier League


Chris Baird: Fulham defender showing his versatility at left-back for his club

Fulham defender Chris Baird admits he is not relishing the prospect of facing speed merchant Theo Walcott on Saturday.

The two were team-mates at Southampton before Walcott left for Arsenal in a deal worth £12 million in January 2006.

Baird's versatility has seen him deployed as a left-back and if he continues in that role, he will come up against the in-form winger.

And it is a task the Northern Ireland international admits he is not relishing.

"No, no, he is very quick," said Baird when asked if he was looking foward to the clash.

"Theo was fantastic, even at such a young age [at Southampton].

Problems

"Obviously he was thrown into the team but the more games he played, the more confident he got, scoring a few goals."

He added: "His pace always caused defenders problems. I am glad he is doing well at Arsenal. He deserves it.

"He has been fantastic for them this season so it is a hard game for us. We will go there with our confidence and see what happens.

"Arsenal are on fire right now. They had a really poor start but they have turned it around massively.

"They have got Robin van Persie banging in the goals for them so we have to be on our game to stop him and Arsenal from getting their result."



http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11095/7325871/?

[WhiteJC]

 
Reserves draw with Palace
by DAN on NOVEMBER 22, 2011

Fulham's reserves – including three trialists – drew 1-1 in a behind-closed-doors friendly with Crystal Palace this afternoon.

The Fulham goal was scored by one of the trialist and made by Orlando Sa, who has made a welcome return from his hamstring injury. The Portuguese striker was twice denied by fine saves from the Palace goalkeeper Lewis Price, who also saved from the outstanding Marcel Gecov.

FULHAM RESERVES: Etheridge; B.H. Riise, Briggs, Pritchard, Burn; Kasami, Gecov, Trialist (Donegan 75), Trialist; Sa, Trialist (Trotta 82). Subs (not used): Bettinelli, Dean, Brister, Minkwitz.



http://hammyend.com/index.php/2011/11/reserves-draw-with-palace/?

[WhiteJC]

 
Sunderland v Fulham – Player Ratings
by LORK on NOVEMBER 22, 2011

Saturday was a game where both sides could have won, but it would have been harsh on the losing side had either team scored. On the whole an uninspiring game with not too many incidents, although the woodwork again came to our rescue against Sunderland and Dempsey could/should have secured three points late on with a bad miss. Even still, another clean sheet with a makeshift defense missing four full backs through injury, a good defensive performance on the whole.

Schwarzer – 7, wasn't really troubled too much, and was shaky a couple of times on crosses, requiring defenders to cover. However, he preserved the clean sheet, and by extension the point, with a wonderful wonderful save with his feet at the end. Having gone to ground, the deflection left him almost useless but he reacted quickly to get a leg to the ball before it went in the net. Good stuff.

Hangeland – 6.5, kept Bendter and co quiet, making a couple of good blocks along the way.

Senderos – 6, like Hangeland a good performance, although he never looks quite as assured does he. Even still, he didn't let himself down on his return to the side.

Baird – 6.5, struggled at the beginning against Elmohamady but soon worked him out and not very much came down that side for the rest of the game. His versatility is such a boon for the squad. Didn't really probe offensively though.

Hughes – 5.5, did ok down the right hand side except when up against Sessegnon who did him numerous times very easily, almost all Sunderland's most threatening moments came from Sessegnon beating Hughes. Hughes' distribution is also really quite poor, which you can get away with at centre half (and he's just good enough for a passing team like us, and his long balls over the full back for Zamora are pretty good, under Roy alot of attacks started from that) but at fullback when you a) see more of the ball b) are under more pressure when you have it you need to be better.

Murphy – 6, never really got hold of the ball and created anything or inspired our offensive game, although he did ok defensively and covering.

Etuhu – 7.5, a really, really good performance and a needed one too, having come under pressure from fans in recent weeks. He took his opportunity, after Sidwell had a hernia operation, really as well as he could. Made tackles, kept possession moving very well (arguably moved the ball around better than Murphy did, at any rate by the end of the game he had 92% passing rate) and was unfortunate to see a header cleared off the line just before half time. Probably the difference between keeping Sunderland comfortably away despite their possesion and being overrun.

Duff – 6, a hard working, but ultimately ineffective performance and I'm not sure why he played if Jol at the end admitted that he 'couldn't run for the last 10 minutes'. Suprised not to see him subbed earlier.

Dempsey – 6, hmm, missed a sitter, but I thought he had an ok game overall. Nothing too spectacular although he helped cover Baird quite well. I don't think he had any other choice but to shoot; the pass infront of Dembele was blocked off by a Sunderland player and the pass to Dembele would have been cut off by a runner making up ground. Even still, poor miss.

Dembele – 6.5, worked really hard off the ball, he wins the ball back really really well, using his strength, balance and quick feet to close and nick the ball from opposing players, and if there was one player who looked like he could create something it was him; in he first half he drifted past a couple of players but placed his shot at the keeper and in the second set Dempsey free one on one. He had very little space to work with really.

Zamora – 5.5, the touch wasn't really there but I think that was explained with the sub, replaced by Andy Johnson holding his hip. Would have probably taken him off a few minutes earlier though, or at half time.

~Subs~

Johnson – 6, provided a better out ball than Zamora did, but other than that didn't do too much

Ruiz – N/A, came on for a token few minutes, just because Duff was tired, but surely he must be close to starting. Would love to see him start against Arsenal, I reckon he could exploit the space very well.

Briggs – N/A, too injured to start but came on in injury time to shore up our defence.



http://hammyend.com/index.php/2011/11/sunderland-v-fulham-player-ratings/?

[WhiteJC]

 
Keanu Marsh Brown, Loaner Report

Per the offal: "Fulham FC can confirm that Keanu Marsh Brown has today left the Club by mutual consent."

Never played a minute for the first team, but was on the bench for those memorable wins over Shaktar, Juventus; a few other random Europa Games. Had a pretty productive spell at MK Dons the second-half of last season, and even played a part in the Dons' playoff run. This season he was loaned out to Dundee United, but that was quickly cancelled after Marsh Brown failed to adapt to that coastal spot on the Firth of Tay.

Speaking of loans, it's been wayy too long since the last report. My apologies, this year's crop seems to be more tedious than others.

David Stockdale started and made 4 saves in Ipswich Town's 3-2 loss at Nottingham Forest on Saturday. On November 5, he started and made 3 saves in Ipswich Town's 3-2 win to Doncaster. On October 29 he made one save in Ipswich's 4-1 loss at Millwall. Portsmouth.

Bjorn Helge Riise an unused sub in Pompey's 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest on November 5. His loan deal expired on November 17. He made just two appearances for the club. One could argue a reason for that was manager Steve Cotterill's departure for Forest on October 14.

Carlos Salcido started, played 90 minutes, had 1 shots in Tigres' 1-0 win at Pachuca on Sunday. On November 6 he came off the bench in the 64th minute in Tigres' 1-0 win at Puebla. On October 26 he started but played 18 minutes in Tigres' 1-0 loss at Guadalajara.

Lauri Dalla Valle was an unused sub in Dundee United's 1-0 win over Hearts on Saturday. On November 5 he came off the bench in the 80th minute in Dundee United's 3-1 loss at Rangers. On October 29 he started and played 52 minutes in their 4-1 win at Dunfermline in the Scottish Cup. On October 25 he started and played 55 minutes in the their 2-2 draw with Falkirk.

Danny Hoesen started, played 90 minutes, in Fortuna Sittard's 0-0 draw with Almere City on October 28. On Novemer 5 he played 90 minutes in Fortuna Sittard's 1-0 loss to FC Eindhoven. I'm sure he played more than this, but Google Translate and Dutch is difficult.


http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2011/11/22/keanu-marsh-brown-loaner-report/?

[ScalleysDad]

LDV is taking his time becoming the 'next big thing' is'nt he. I wonder when and if ever.

[WhiteJC]

 
Chris Baird happy to be Fulham's Mr Versatile

CHRIS BAIRD is happy to continue being Fulham's Mr Versatile.

The 29-year-old has lined up all across the backline for the Cottagers this season as they juggle Premier League and Europa League commitments.

Baird played in an unfamiliar left-back role during Saturday's 0-0 draw at Sunderland and insists he is happy to play wherever he is needed.

"Things are not going too badly at the moment," Baird said.

"In the last couple of games at home, the results have been disappointing but performances have been excellent.

"But it is another clean sheet for us and there are positives in the game and we will take it into Arsenal.

"I have (played across the defence) and played as left-back on Saturday.

"I don't mind where I play as long as I am in the team, playing well."



Read More http://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/amateur-football/2011/11/23/chris-baird-happy-to-be-fulham-s-mr-versatile-100252-29824848/?#ixzz1eWS4VB1w

[WhiteJC]

 
New Seasonal Gifts

December is just a week away now, but here at Fulham Football Club we are one step ahead with some fantastic new seasonal products to get you in the festive spirit.

Keep those little hands warm on chilly evenings at the Cottage with our Badgers FFC Mittens. These cosy winter gloves have a black and white stripe design with FFC crest appliqué, and are available at an incredible price of just £6.99!

Alternatively, there is no better way to get into the Christmas spirit than with the FFC Santa Hat. This black and white design highlights the Fulham colours, with a snowflake pattern and official FFC crest applied too.  The ultimate hat to have this December is available to buy for just £3.99.

When giving a gift to a Fulham fan this year, make sure you wrap their present with the Club's very own Wrapping Paper – styled with an FFC crest pattern.  But not only that, you can wish season's greetings to Whites fans all over the world, as well as friends and family, with the Fulham FC Christmas Card.

Have a look at our Seasonal Range for a variety of other fantastic Fulham Christmas items.

One Day Offer - Special Edition Fulham FC Tea Bags

For today only, fans can take advantage of a great offer on the special edition Fulham FC tea bags.

Featuring our Chairman Mohamed Al Fayed as well as Johnny Haynes, George Cohen, Manager Martin Jol, and even Billy the Badger, this classic blend of tea bags will make a great Christmas gift for any FFC supporter.

Now at just £4.99 for one day only, why not add this unique gift to your online basket and buy today?



Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/November/NewSeasonalGifts.aspx?#ixzz1eWSk2zAk

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham eye Bristol City striker Maynard

Fulham are closely monitoring Nicky Maynard ahead of a possible January bid for the Bristol City striker.

Maynard's contract expires next summer and City are expected to sell the 24-year-old when the transfer window re-opens rather than risk losing him on a Bosman free transfer at the end of the season.

Several Premier League clubs are keeping tabs on him and Fulham have had him watched in recent weeks – including on Sunday at Millwall, where he scored twice

The Whites are hoping to negotiate a contract for their own marksman, Andrew Johnson, who is a target for west London neighbours QPR.

Johnson's current deal expires at the end of the season and if he does not re-sign, Maynard could be an option as a replacement.

Maynard has scored 43 goals in 114 league appearances since moving to Bristol from Crewe for £2.25m in 2008.




http://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/fulham-keep-tabs-on-bristol-city-star-maynard-as-johnson-contract-talks-continue/?

[WhiteJC]

 
Premier League for Sport Netball

Fulham FC Foundation and Netball team Surrey Storm joined forces to get more people in London and the South to play netball.

Chris Baird, Kerim Frei and Jesse Joronen visited Surrey Sports Park recently, the home of Surrey Storm, to launch 'Premier League for Sport Netball' – an initiative which aims to use the profile of a Premier League Football club such as Fulham to encourage more people to play non-traditional sports like netball at a grassroots level.

This initiative is just the start of a new partnership between Fulham FC Foundation and Surrey Sports Park which will see more community projects delivered by a professional football club at this elite facility.

To launch the partnership, the footballers took part in a skills swap with the netballers, learning shooting and passing drills, while Surrey Storm's Tamsin Greenway, Steph Bello, Katie Holland and Rhianne McHale practiced taking penalties and tested their ball juggling skills.

Defender Chris Baird said, "Football is a recognised sport throughout the world. It's important to use the power of football and global appeal of the Premier League to promote many other sports available to young people here at Surrey Sports Park.

"Participation in any sport is important to develop many skills and can help people to achieve many personal goals in their lives whilst leading a healthy lifestyle."

Paul Blanchard CEO of Surrey Sports Park said, "We are delighted to partner with Fulham FC's Foundation to encourage more young people in the Surrey community to play sport. The values of performance, participation and personal development are at the heart of Surrey Sports Park, and we share the Foundation's vision to deliver high quality community sport in the area. We're looking forward to working with the Club in the future on many more initiatives."

Steven Day, Chief Executive of Fulham Football Foundation, said, "Fulham FC Foundation is delighted to form a partnership with Surrey Sports Park. Local people of all ages are able to have access to high quality sports coaching within a first class sports facility environment, which is a great opportunity to increase levels of participation in all sports."



Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/November/PremierLeagueforSportNetball.aspx?#ixzz1eWbi3Yi1

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham defender: 'We have to be on our game to stop van Persie'

Chris Baid is very respectful of the Gunners ahead of their Premier League encounter

Fulham defender Chris Baird hailed Arsenal star Robin van Persie ahead of the two sides meeting in the Premier League on Saturday

Van Persie has been in excellent form this year, scoring 31 goals.

"They have got Robin van Persie banging in the goals for them so we have to be on our game to stop him and Arsenal from getting their result," he said.

Baird also singled out Theo Walcott for praise ahead of the two sides meeting.

"Theo was fantastic, even at such a young age (at Southampton)," he added.

"Obviously he was thrown into the team but the more games he played, the more confident he got, scoring a few goals."

"His pace always caused defenders problems. I am glad he is doing well at Arsenal. He deserves it.

"He has been fantastic for them this season so it is a hard game for us. We will go there with our confidence and see what happens.

"Arsenal are on fire right now. They had a really poor start but they have turned it around massively.

Meanwhile Fulham youngster Keanu Marsh Brown has left the Club by mutual consent.



http://www.london24.com/sport/arsenal/fulham_defender_we_have_to_be_on_our_game_to_stop_van_persie_1_1134517?

[WhiteJC]

 
Football Forum - Martin Jol on life at Fulham

Fulham manager Martin Jol, speaking to the BBC's Mark Bright, reflects on his first few months in charge at Craven Cottage and the expectations he has for the west London club.

The 55-year-old Dutchman also shares his thoughts on sought after striker Moussa Dembele, Bobby Zamora's England prospects and his admiration for fellow countryman Robin Van Persie, whom his side face at the Emirates on Saturday.



http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/15854772.stm?

[WhiteJC]

 
Robins hitman identified

Fulham are believed to be keeping tabs on Bristol City striker Nicky Maynard as they eye possible replacements for Andrew Johnson.

City are expected to cash in on the 24-year-old when the transfer window reopens in the new year as he will become a free agent next summer unless if agrees a new contract at Ashton Gate, which now seems unlikely.

A number of Premier League clubs including the Cottagers have been checking out him in recent weeks, and those in attendance at City's game against Millwall on Sunday would have seen the £2.25m signing from Crewe, on target twice.

Fulham boss Martin Jol hasn't given up hopes yet of persuading Johnson to extend his own stay at Craven Cottage, but with the former Crystal Palace and Everton forward in a similar position to Maynard, a decision on his future will have to be taken shortly.

QPR have already expressed an interest in Johnson, who has returned to form and fitness this season after an injury-plagued two years.



http://www.eatsleepsport.com/fulham/robins-hitman-identified-1340399.html?#.TszuymAlE98