Wednesday Fulham Stuff (21/12/11)...

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Fulham v Manchester United Premier League preview

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson must decide whether to make changes for Wednesday's Premier League away to Fulham.

United tackle Fulham at Craven Cottage in what will be their second visit to London in four days after they disposed of QPR on Sunday.

The unexpected return of Javier Hernandez from an ankle strain at the weekend offers Sir Alex Ferguson more attacking options, whilst Ashley Young may also be called upon for one of the wide berths.

Fulham will welcome Bobby Zamora back. The 30-year-old striker missed Saturday's 2-0 defeat of Bolton with a medial ligament injury in his left knee but is fit to play at Craven Cottage tomorrow.

Steve Sidwell continues to miss out after a hernia operation and fellow midfielder Simon Davies has a back complaint. The pair are joined on the sidelines by goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer (spine) and Zdenek Grygera (knee).

Fulham: Stockdale, Etheridge, Riise, Kelly, Baird, Hangeland, Hughes, Dembele, Briggs, Kasami, Duff, Murphy, Gecov, Etuhu, Ruiz, Dempsey, Frei, Zamora, Sa, Johnson.

Manchester United: De Gea, Lindegaard, Amos, Evans, Smalling, Ferdinand, Evra, Jones, Fryers, Cole, Carrick, Young, Valencia, Park, Gibson, Nani, Giggs, Macheda, Rooney, Welbeck, Berbatov, Hernandez, Diouf.



http://www.dailypost.co.uk/sport-news/football-news/2011/12/20/fulham-v-manchester-united-premier-league-preview-55578-29984417/?

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Zamora in the frame for Manchester United clash



Fulham v Mancheter United

FULHAM frontman Bobby Zamora has been passed fit for tomorrow night's clash at Craven Cottage.

The England striker missed Saturday's victory over Bolton with a knee problem, but is in the frame to return against the Premier League champions.

However, Steve Sidwell is missing after a hernia op, so Dickson Etuhu will continue alongside Danny Murphy in the engine room.

David Stockdale will be in the sticks in the absence of the injured Mark Schwarzer, while Zdenek Grygera (knee) and Simon Davies (back) are still sidelined.



Read More http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/12/20/zamora-in-the-frame-for-manchester-united-clash-82029-29984418/?#ixzz1h9ezhxNa

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MATCH PREVIEW: Fulham FC vs. Manchester United

Just three days after their 2-0 away victory over Queens Park Rangers, Manchester United will be in London again for another Premier League clash on Wednesday-- this time with Fulham FC at Craven Cottage. During this same fixture last season, Fulham defender Brede Hangeland scored a disastrous 84th minute own-goal to put the visitors up 2-1. Moments later, Damien Duff handled in the box and the Reds appeared to be on their way to eventual victory. However, Nani failed to convert the penalty and just minutes later, Hangeland atoned for his error when he headed home the equaliser during a thrilling match. During the return fixture in April, United earned a 2-0 victory during the run-in that proved crucial in their title run.

MANCHESTER UNITED

Form Guide: United come into the match sitting 2nd in the table, two points behind leaders Manchester City. Their away form has been impressive thus far in league as their 20 points from 8 matches is unmatched -- nor is their three goals conceded from those same 8 matches. The next best defensive record in league comes from Chelsea FC and Liverpool FC -- each have conceded 7 goals from 8 matches away from home. The Reds have also gone 7 matches unbeaten in league with the last two coming in impressive fashion. It has been a proper response to their disappointing departure from the UEFA Champions League just two weeks ago.

Team News: Injuries have been a major hindrance at the club in recent weeks but the recent trend of news is towards the positive end of the spectrum. During the past weekend's match versus QPR, both Dimitar Berbatov and Javier Hernandez (Chicharito) returned from injury and each is expected to be available for Fulham. In addition, right-back Rafael has returned to training and he is expected to be available soon. However, there is still a fair amount of negative in regards to the injuries at the club: Nemanja Vidic and Darren Fletcher are out for the remainder of the season due to injury and illness, respectively. In addition, Anderson is expected to be out for a few more months due to injury while the likes of Michael Owen, Tom Cleverley, and Fabio are still out -- but with the hopes of returning by the new year.

FULHAM

Form Guide: Fulham enter the match sitting 11th in the league table. While their 18 goals from 16 matches indicates difficulties in scoring goals, their 18 goals conceded is good for 4th best in league -- their goal differential of 0 is 8th best in league. Their most recent league match was a 2-0 home victory over bottom of the table Bolton Wanderers. In Europe, the Cottagers experienced heartbreak during the past midweek when Danish side Odense BK scored an equaliser just seconds from the final whistle to knock out the 2009-10 Europa League finalists. Because of this run, it was a competition that had endeared itself to Fulham supporters.

Team News: Just as United, Fulham has also dealt with numerous players unavailable for their recent fixtures. Striker Bobby Zamora has recently been listed as dealing with a knock on his knee but speculation is that he's having some sort of feud with manager Martin Jol. Therefore, his availability is uncertain. No. 1 goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer is out as is Zdenek Grygera and Steve Sidwell. Simon Davies and Damien Duff have also been dealing with knocks recently and their availability is in question.



PROJECTING LINEUPS

MUFC: Sir Alex Ferguson did something quite rare in his recent managerial history when he fielded an unchanged side last weekend versus Wolves. However, due to possible squad rotation during the congested festive fixture list, change is possible. No. 1 David De Gea is anticipated in goal but able deputy Anders Lindegaard could provide the Spaniard a midweek rest. In central defense, Jonny Evans and Rio Ferdinand might be the most reasonable guess but both Chris Smalling and Phil Jones are possible to feature. At right-back, either Smalling or Jones are expected as is Patrice Evra at left-back. In central-midfield, the recently successful partnership of Michael Carrick and Phil Jones could feature again but Ryan Giggs is possible to start as well. Out on the flanks, Antonio Valencia or Nani is possible on the right while either Ashley Young and Nani is possible on the left-flank -- Park Ji-sung is a candidate for either flank as well. Up front, Wayne Rooney is almost certain to start and he likely will be partnered by either Danny Welbeck or Chicharito.

Fulham: Due to Fulham's thin squad and their injury concern, selection options for Jol are relatively limited. Backup goalkeeper David Stockdale is expected to deputise for No. 1 Mark Schwarzer while Brede Hangeland and Philippe Senderos are the anticipated center-back pairing. John Arne Riise is the automatic choice at left-back while Chris Baird is probable to start at right-back over Stephen Kelly. In central midfield, Danny Murphy is expected to be partnered by the more conservatively positioned Dickson Etuhu. Clint Dempsey is likely as a narrowly-positioned wide player on the left -- one who likes to drift in the space between the lines -- while Bryan Ruiz is a wide right player for Fulham that likes come inward. Up front, Andy Johnson appears the more likely selection over Zamora while Moussa Dembele is anticipated to play in a withdrawn role.



TACTICAL KEYS

* Use Jones to close down Murphy?: During United's past match versus QPR, Jones played left of center -- the opposite side from the previous week versus Wolves -- and it was presumably so that he could be a natural positonal foil to Joey Barton. The result was -- whether coincidentally or not -- a poor match from Barton. Will Jones be used similary against Fulham's Murphy, if he is selected for this match? Murphy is the player that pulls the strings for his side in central-midfield and his club-leading 2.7 key passes per match indicates that he is a primary creative source for the Londoners. If Jones is matched with Murphy, this may provide the added benefit of Carrick being matched with Etuhu. If Etuhu stays conservative positionally, then Carrick can expect to see time on the ball and this increases the likelihood that he can distribute without relative burden.

* Track Dempsey's movement between the lines: United have a tendency to be vulnerable against sides that have players who roam in the space between the lines. This is especially so when they do not use Fergie's 4-3-3/4-5-1 hybrid shape that is often deployed in 'big matches.' This shape is unlikely to be used against Fulham due to them being a midtable caliber side and also because of depth concerns for United in central-midfield during this congested fixture list period. Therefore, Carrick -- assuming that he is deployed -- must be aware so that United can keep things compact between the midfield and defense lines when out of possession. If Carrick stays deep, this could provide two benefits: (1) time on the ball when United are in possession due to the possible previously mentioned 'tacital key.' Also, this could help provide cover if Dempsey is able to slip inside of Smalling (or Jones) and receive the ball in the dangerous space between the lines.

* Width: Against sides that play narrow in attack, opportunity is often there for the full-backs to get forward into the available space. There's the obvious threat of these full-backs getting caught out when possession is lost but the basic tactical ploy is to use a holding-player to provide cover. However, United may have not have a true holding-player deployed in this match. Therefore, it will be important for United's full-backs to be intelligent with choices on when to get forward into available space or when to play it conservatively so that space behind them isn't exploited on counterattacks. This is especially concerning with Evra. Perhaps a good tactical balance would be using Jones' energy to be combative higher up in midfield while Carrick sits deep and dictates from there -- this would allow the United midfield maestro to possibly be free due to Etuhu's deep-positioning and also free up the full-backs to bravely surge forward into this likely available space vacated by the narrowly-positioned Dempsey and Ruiz.

KO: Wednesday 8:00pm GMT, 3:00pm EST | Craven Cottage

TV: Fox Soccer (U.S.)

Odds: Fulham 4/1, Draw 5/2, Manchester United 8/11

TBB Prediction: Fulham 1-3 Manchester United



http://www.thebusbybabe.com/2011/12/20/2648458/match-preview-fulham-fc-vs-manchester-united?

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Bristol City tell Premier League clubs: Hands off Adomah

Bristol City have issued a 'hands-off warning' to Premier League clubs keen on signing Albert Adomah next month.

Adomah has been in sensational form this season and has continued to improve under new manager Derek McInnes.

Scouts from numerous Premier League sides have taken notice of him in recent weeks, with Everton and Fulham eager to speak to City about the prospect of signing the 23-year-old.

But McInnes will be backed by his board in January and is under no pressure to sell the Ghana international.

The Bristol City manager, meanwhile, will be given money to spend in January and he will look to sign a striker at Ashton Gate having seen his side score just once in their past three games.



http://www.talksport.co.uk/sports-news/football/football-league/championship/1393/48/bristol-city-tell-premier-league-clubs-hands-adomah?

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Hoodoo of Craven Cottage

Hoodoo of Craven Cottage
By: Ras S on 20 December 2011
Tags: Chicharito, dimitar berbatov, Fulham, Javier Hernández, Jonny Evans, Manchester United, Michael Carrick, Phil Jones, Red Devils, Rio Ferdinand, Ryan Giggs, Sir Alex

Two wins out of two, six goals scored and only one conceded post the black, dark and gloomy night of Basel. The first performance against Wolverhampton Wanderers was very good as we banged in 4 goals, breaking out of the 1 goal trend of the matches prior to that. However, the lunchtime kickoff against Queens Park Rangers at Loftus Road was slated to be a tougher match for the Red Devils and we came through it with a much-needed clean sheet and dominating performance in the final third with the abundance of chances created. The United fans who were closer to the field really added to the atmosphere and it is always nice to see the fans having a blast. Pre-game my thoughts drifted back to the meetings of the 90s when most often than not, United had to slog it out for a win there. We were made to work hard this time too but perhaps not as hard as an uncharacteristic solo run and shot by Michael Carrick finished off the encounter. QPR couldn't manage a goal to test our nerves at the end so we saw the match out and picked up 3 points smilingly.

Now the test gets tougher as we face Fulham in another old school stadium called the Craven Cottage. Last season United lost a lead twice to draw 2-2. We have not won there in the Premier League since 1st of March 2008 and since the 7th of March 2009 in all competitions when we trashed them 4-0 in the FA Cup. The past results suggest that it will be far from a walk in the park for the Red Devils as United continue their recovery from a blip and a wobble. The past 2 performances suggest that United are steadily making progress in the right direction and the form, energy and hunger is returning to the side. There is more zip in United's play now and greater movement akin to the performances of early season. Inevitably, there will be changes in the Manchester United first eleven on Wednesday as Sir Alex will use his experience to rotate the team to cope with the testing festive period that will start on Wednesday.

As I had finished off my last paragraph on the note that Sir Alex will rotate his side, I will point out that perhaps the continuity of first eleven against QPR had something to do with a smooth and solid performance as United fielded the same first eleven in consecutive matches in a long time. That is what happened in the start of the season and the results corresponded. It is difficult in modern-day football for a big club like Manchester United who are involved in different competitions and playing every three days to constantly play with the same first eleven week in, week out but the least we can hope for especially now when the centre of defence and midfield are slightly bare due to injuries is that Sir Alex refrains from changing too much in those areas.

Rio Ferdinand has been fit and touchwood to that as his experience has been vital. Jonny Evans is growing in confidence but it has only been two games for the Ulsterman so I would reserve my opinion on him for a later time when presumably he would have played more matches in a row with greater consistency I hope. I do have to compliment Evans though on his performance as it has been as good as I have seen him play in a long time and he did deserve a goal. Carrick is in the right kind of form at the right time and his accomplice, Phil Jones is turning back the clock with an old school style box to box midfield performance which is outdated in today's context. However, the young Englishman has to be careful on his raids so as not to leave his partner outnumbered in centre midfield especially when they face opponents that play with 3 central midfielders. I do suspect though that Ryan Giggs might step in this Wednesday as United opt for greater experience rather than youthful exuberance against a tougher opponent at a ground that is somewhat a hoodoo ground for United.

Javier Hernandez and Dimitar Berbatov's return would give United a timely boost. Sir Alex sprang a surprise on all on Sunday when the Mexican was named on the bench but I suppose Sir Alex will be careful so as not to throw him back into the fray too soon. He will take his time and ease Hernandez back in at his own time. The Mexican also known as Chicharito to all and sundry is perhaps finding the stop-start nature of his second season a little difficult to contend with as he hasn't quite hit the heights of last season. Moreover, I feel defenders are more aware of the Hernandez's off-the-ball running as they constantly catch him offside and the same applies to the referee's assistants who might be a little quick on the flag to catch the Mexican offside. Hernandez has been caught offside the most number of times in the Premier League this season with 28 offside calls against him. However, no matter what anyone does, everyone knows that all it takes is for a chance or an offside call to go our way and the Mexican would, most of the time at least, be on hand to punish the opponents.

Let us not get ahead of ourselves now. Let's take it a game at a time and matches at this time of the year come with their own hidden dangers even if it is at Old Trafford. We can be sure that there will be a great atmosphere awaiting us at Craven Cottage with the United fans on top of their voices and feeling confident but the players on the pitch would have to work hard and keep up the good work for us to continue the run we are on. We might need to win ugly too but all that matters are the 3 points. I want to be celebrating another trophy triumph in the month of my birthday, May as no trophies are handed out now, Manchester City.


http://www.trulyreds.com/20111220/hoodoo-of-craven-cottage/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+TrulyRed+%28The+Manchester+United+fans+blog+%29

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Bobby Zamora back for Fulham

Fulham will welcome Bobby Zamora back for tomorrow's tough Premier League clash with Manchester United.

The 30-year-old striker missed Saturday's 2-0 defeat of Bolton with a medial ligament injury in his left knee but is fit to play at Craven Cottage tomorrow.

Steve Sidwell continues to miss out after a hernia operation and fellow midfielder Simon Davies has a back complaint. The pair are joined on the sidelines by goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer (spine) and Zdenek Grygera (knee).




http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/standard-sport/football/article-24023337-bobby-zamora-back-for-fulham.do?

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Fulham    v    Man Utd

Barclays Premier League
Venue: Craven Cottage Date: Wednesday, 21 December Kick-off: 2000 GMT Coverage: Watch highlights on Match of the Day; listen on BBC Radio 5 live and local radio; text commentary on BBC Sport website and mobiles

TEAM NEWS
Fulham welcome back Bobby Zamora after he missed the win over Bolton.

Midfielders Simon Davies and Steve Sidwell are still absent, along with defender Zdenek Grygera and goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer.

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson may include Javier Hernandez, who has recovered quicker than expected from injury.

United are without Anderson, Tom Cleverley, Darren Fletcher, Rafael, Michael Owen and Nemanja Vidic.

MATCH PREVIEW
After 16 games last season, Manchester United topped the Premier League and were still unbeaten - staying that way until early February. They've not been as good this season though, have they? Well, perhaps surprisingly, in statistical terms, yes they have been better.

United's 39 points from 16 matches is five more than last year's tally, with three more wins on the board and one more goal scored for good measure.

Little wonder then, that Sir Alex Ferguson is not unduly worried about still being behind neighbours Manchester City in the title race. He said after Sunday's comfortable win at QPR that "the important thing is to be there on New Year's Day", before referencing his team's almost traditional second half of the season improvement. "We'll relish that" should be an innocent enough statement, but sounds menacing when delivered in deep Glaswegian!

Fulham did of course have their own 2-0 win at the weekend, but following up with another victory is something that's been beyond them this season. In fact, they only managed back-to-back league wins once in the whole of last season too.

One piece of recent history that IS on Fulham's side is that Manchester United have failed to win any of their last three games at Craven Cottage. I was there in March 2009 to see a 2-0 home win that involved red cards for Paul Scholes and Wayne Rooney, and a fabulous display in goal from Mark Schwarzer. The big Aussie's absence through injury this time is a blow that's been softened by the return of England squad regular David Stockdale from a loan spell at Ipswich, and he is sure to have a busy night.

It'll be a good night too. Craven Cottage comes alive with games like this, and even though I can't see United losing away for the first time in the league this season, they'll have to work hard for whatever they come away with.

MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head

After being undefeated in their first seven visits to Fulham in the Premier League, Manchester United have not won any of their last three trips to Craven Cottage.
Manchester United have won only two of their last five Premier League games against Fulham.
This is the 76th meeting between the clubs. Manchester United have won 43 times, Fulham 14 and there have been 18 draws.

Fulham
Fulham have scored just 18 goals in 16 league matches this season - and six of those came in one match.
They have conceded 18 league goals - only Liverpool and the two Manchester sides have let in fewer. Only Manchester United and Swansea have kept more clean sheets than Fulham's seven.
Fulham have not conceded a penalty in their last 52 Premier League matches - the last time was in the 2-2 home match against Manchester United in August 2010 when Nani missed from the spot. The last penalty scored against the club was by Mikel Arteta for Everton in April 2010.
Each of Fulham's four Premier League victories this season have included a goal from Clint Dempsey.
Damien Duff could make his 400th career league appearance.

Manchester United
The Red Devils have conceded 79% of goals in the second half of matches - the highest proportion in the top flight.
Against QPR, Wayne Rooney became the first player to score three Premier League goals in the first minute. He had previously scored in the opening 60 seconds against Wigan (2009) and Aston Villa (2011).
United have only lost once in the Premier League this season, and have scored in each of their 16 matches.
They have won six of their eight away matches so far this season. At this stage last year they had only won one of their eight away matches.


http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/16173202.stm?

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Running the Gauntlet

Thankfully the matches this festive period are all within a day of each other, as it may quell the potential agony. Look at this run:

H   Manchester United   Wed 21
A   Chelsea   Mon 26
A   Norwich City Sat 31
H   Arsenal   Mon 02

Yikes. Yet the only solace I can find is that at least the fixtures aren't reversed. Just imagine...

A   Manchester United   Wed 21
H   Chelsea   Mon 26
H   Norwich City   Sat 31
A   Arsenal   Mon 02

Having Manchester United home is obviously more beneficial than having them away. As far as I'm concerned, it doesn't matter if we play Chelsea home or away; we seem to lose no matter what. Like with United, having Norwich at home is better than away, but at least with the current schedule we have the possibility of attaining a point at Carrow Road (not the same for Old Trafford I'm afraid).

And Arsenal? Sheesh, we could win, lose, or draw to them home or away and none would surprise me. But, at least at home we've been making good accords of ourselves in recent years. Last season we really should have won had Briggs been subbed and Gera not been shown a straight red. Two seasons ago we played them off the park but were thwarted by a unknown goalkeeper named Vito Mannone (yes, that same Vito Mannone). Three seasons ago, we actually did beat them.

So, how many points will you be happy with this Christmas period? I'm thinking 3.

I may need an extra helping of Christmas spirits this holiday...


http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2011/12/20/running-the-gauntlet/?

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Smalling set for emotional night

Manchester United defender Chris Smalling has admitted he would not be where he is today without the two years he spent at Fulham.

Smalling will show no mercy towards his old club on Wednesday when United visit Craven Cottage hunting three more points in their quest to retain the Barclays Premier League title.

However, the 21-year-old will be greeting some old friends before and after kick-off.

And, although he only made 14 senior appearances for the Cottagers, it was the period between being snapped up from non-league Maidstone to arriving at Manchester United in 2010 that turned him into an England international.

"Without [former Fulham boss] Roy Hodgson giving me my chance there I wouldn't be here," he said. "I had a big two years there and it is a time I look back upon fondly.

"My first year was about finding my feet. The second was about showcasing what I can do. It'll be nice to go back and see a few of the players and play back at the Cottage."


http://www.clubcall.com/manchester-united/smalling-set-for-emotional-night-1357133.html?

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FULHAM v Manchester United: Zamora fit to face champions

Fulham will welcome Bobby Zamora back for Wednesday's Barclays Premier League clash with Manchester United.

The 30-year-old striker missed Saturday's 2-0 defeat of Bolton with a medial ligament injury in his left knee but is fit to play at Craven Cottage.


In contention: Fulham striker Bobby Zamora could face Manchester United

Steve Sidwell continues to miss out after a hernia operation and fellow midfielder Simon Davies has a back complaint.

The pair are joined on the sidelines by goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer (spine) and Zdenek Grygera (knee).

Provisional squad: Stockdale, Etheridge, Riise, Kelly, Baird, Hangeland, Hughes, Dembele, Briggs, Kasami, Duff, Murphy, Gecov, Etuhu, Ruiz, Dempsey, Frei, Zamora, Sa, Johnson.


Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2076606/FULHAM-v-Manchester-United-Bobby-Zamora-fit.html#ixzz1h9kRS100

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Coady on target in Fulham draw

Conor Coady was on target as Liverpool Reserves were held to a 1-1 draw at Fulham in their final league match of 2011.

The highly-rated midfielder netted the opener with a second-half spot-kick following an entertaining first period in which both sides played some neat, attacking football.

However, Rodolfo Borrell's team were pegged back late in the game and ultimately had to settle for a share of the spoils.

Borrell told Liverpoolfc.tv: "It was a very good game with two sides looking to play football the right way.

"It was a shame we couldn't take all three points but I am satisfied with our performance overall."

Liverpool: Hansen, Mendy, Smith, Sama, Wisdom, Roberts, Adorjan (Suso 67), Coady, Ngoo, Eccleston, Sterling. Unused subs: Belford, Roddan, Silva, McGiveron.


http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/coady-on-target-in-fulham-draw?

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United Challenge

Fulham have achieved some stunning results over Manchester United at Craven Cottage in recent years and Martin Jol is hoping his Team can deliver another memorable result against the current Barclays Premier League Champions in SW6 on Wednesday night.

"We've had a 3-0 win and a 2-2 draw against Manchester United in recent seasons so we seem to do well against them at the Cottage," said Jol.

"Manchester United have that extra quality and you can't give them space. If you make a mistake they will punish you.  We have to play to our strengths on Wednesday night and stop them exploiting their qualities."

After seeing his Team defeat Bolton Wanderers last weekend Jol believes Fulham are looking a better balanced side as the half way mark of the 2011/12 campaign approaches and Jol remains confident that Fulham will establish themselves in the top half of the table this season.

"The balance is a bit better now," Jol explained. "We have to improve and do better and exploit the talents of players like Mousa Dembele and Bryan Ruiz. We have to play to their strengths and play to the other strikers. Andrew Johnson did well on Saturday and the balance was good.

"It's about playing well, scoring goals and getting the points and we did that on Saturday. If you've got the players we've got I think we can go for a very good position in the League this year. I'm happy with my squad; we've got terrific players in all positions.

"Maybe we are capable of winning something this year and I think we'll do better and better. Hopefully we can establish ourselves in the top ten this season like we did before and improve."



Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/December/JolUnitedPreview.aspx?#ixzz1h9lH8HLq

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JOL CONCERNED OVER ZAMORA TALK

Fulham manager Martin Jol admits the regularity of reports regarding Bobby Zamora's future is becoming a concern.

There has been mounting speculation over recent weeks that the pair's relationship is fraught, leading to suggestions the England international could leave Craven Cottage in January.

Jol has constantly batted back such talk and was forced to once again today after a report that Zamora was told to train with the reserves yesterday.

"No, there is no reserves yesterday because we have a game today," Jol said.

"We always train with a rest group (those not involved in the match against Bolton) so Aaron Hughes was there, [Pajtim] Kasami, [Marcel] Gecov. All the players who were not involved in the game.

"That is the normal thing to give theme extra loading.

"I don't know what they are on about and it was not with the reserve team coaches.

"There is no rift, Bobby is Bobby.

"He was fine yesterday, he trained with all the players who didn't start.

"Those 14 did a session to load them, and he was fine."

The speculation has seen Zamora linked with a host of Barclays Premier League clubs, including QPR, Tottenham and Sunderland.

"I'm not concerned," Jol said.

"For me it's not a big problem.

"I'm only concerned that this sort of thing is coming up all the time.

"I don't know but for me there is no problem."

Jol will be able to welcome Zamora back for Wednesday night's match against Manchester United, having missed Saturday's 2-0 defeat of Bolton with a medial ligament injury in his left knee.

"We have always had that belief," Jol said of the Bolton victory.

"The only difference is we got the points and played well, scored a couple of goals and didn't concede.

"Obviously United can punish you and sometimes they will.

"Man United and Chelsea, for example, they have got the extra quality if you give them space.

"We allowed Bolton to have six or seven shots but you cannot allow the likes of Man United to do that.

"I think every game stands on itself. Liverpool was good, Man City was nice but Man United is probably different.

"You have to play to your strengths and that is what we will try to do and try to avoid them exploiting us with their quality.

"We had a 3-0 win and a 2-2 draw recently so we seem to do well against them.

"I think it could be coincidence but it could be our style as well."

While Zamora returns to face Sir Alex Ferguson's side, Steve Sidwell continues to miss out after a hernia operation and fellow midfielder Simon Davies has a back complaint.

"Sidwell is still not training with us so it's a bit of a blow," Jol added.

"He had his hernia operation and sometimes he can feel it in his hip then his groin and then stomach.

"It is a complex area and we try to do everything we can to get him back and the medical staff are quite positive he will join us next week.

"Mark Schwarzer is out for four to six weeks so it is good to have a very good keeper in David Stockdale and I feel the youngster Neil Etheridge is a very good goalkeeper.

"We haven't got a lot of injuries so that is a good situation to be in before the Christmas period."


http://www.sportinglife.com/football/premiership/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/11/12/20/SOCCER_Fulham_Nightlead.html

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Addicks sell out Fulham allocation

TICKETS for Charlton's high-profile FA Cup third-round clash with Premier League Fulham at Craven Cottage on January 7 (3pm) sold out on Saturday, with all 7,000 of the Addicks' allocation having now gone.

Meanwhile, tickets are currently on general sale at standard prices for the home games against Brentford on January 2 and Sheffield United on January 21 (3pm).

For more information, visit cafc.co.uk or call 0871 226 1905.

YANN Kermorgant had six stitches in a head wound following an accidental clash with defender Nathan Clarke in Saturday's match against Oldham Athletic.

The striker left the field several times to be bandaged up, but is expected to be fit for the trip to Yeovil Town on Monday.

Meanwhile, skipper Johnnie Jackson could return from his hamstring injury as soon as the new year.

THE funeral of the last surviving member of Charlton's FA Cup-winning side in 1947, Peter Croker, took place today at St Martin's Church in Bexleyheath.

A minute's applause took place in memory of the defender before Saturday's match against Oldham Athletic and the FA Cup was present for the tribute.

REDUCED season tickets are still available at The Valley covering the final 13 matches of the 2011/12 campaign and, starting from the January 2 match against Brentford, would be a perfect Christmas present.

Places are priced from £160 adults, £110 over 60s and U21s, £50 U18s and £30 U11s and can be purchased from the Valley commercial centre or by calling 0871 226 1905.

Visit cafc.co.uk to download an application form.

THERE are just days until Christmas and fans still seeking Charlton presents have an opportunity to snap up some unique signed Addicks items via the club's official auctions on eBay.

A selection of signed calendar items are available before Friday, search for 'cafc auctions' on eBay.

CHARLTON have announced extended opening hours for the Valley Superstore over Christmas.

The store will operate from 9am-8pm this week until December 23 and will also open on Christmas Eve from 9am-1pm for any last-minute Christmas shopping needs.

Wednesday is the final date for ordering online via cafc.co.uk or by calling 020 8333 4035 to guarantee special delivery in time for Christmas Day.

The commercial centre is open from 9am-5pm until Friday, but tickets are available in person from the Superstore from 5-8pm.

The club is closed from December 25-28 and on New Year's Day, but the Superstore and commercial centre will be open from 9am-5pm on December 29 and 30, while the Superstore will operate from 10am-4pm on New Year's Eve.

YADO Mambo scored his first goal for loan club Ebbsfleet United on Saturday, but couldn't help the Stonebridge Road side avoid a 4-3 defeat away at Grimsby Town.

Meanwhile, keeper Conor Gough made his debut for loan club Eastbourne Borough the same day in a 2-1 defeat to Weston-super-Mare.

Tosan Popo, who went out on loan for the first time on Friday, was an unused substitute for Chelmsford City.

FANS can secure a place at five of Charlton's league games in 2012 for less than the price of four following the launch of the Jackson's Five flexible multi-ticket.

Priced £69 and £99, the five-voucher booklets can be exchanged for match tickets for any home League One games between January and April.

What's more, every booklet includes a Superstore discount voucher worth 10 per cent off all Macron merchandise.

Order online via cafc.co.uk or call 0871 226 1905.

CHARLTON'S U18s ended 2012 in style by defeating Arsenal 3-2 on the Gunners' home turf on Saturday.

Callum Harriott and Bradley Jordan grabbed the goals for the Addicks, who learned last week that they will be at home to Leicester City in the fourth round of the FA Youth Cup.

The date of the game has yet to be decided.

MORE than 65 Charlton Live podcasts are now available to download from iTunes, featuring exclusive interviews with Addicks stars past and present.

The podcasts, which generally last around 45 minutes apiece, are edited versions of the Saturday and Sunday shows broadcast on CAFC Player.

Podcasts can also be found in non-iTunes format at CharltonLive.com

TICKETS for Charlton's next three away league matches, against Yeovil Town on Boxing Day (3pm), Leyton Orient on December 31 (5.20pm – live on Sky) and Sheffield Wednesday on January 14 (3pm) are all on general sale.

All tickets are available in person from the Valley commercial centre, from cafc.co.uk or by calling 0871 226 1905.

GOALS from Toni Alden and Fliss Gibbons helped the Charlton women's team to a 2-2 draw at Barnet on Sunday in their final match before the Christmas break in the fixture schedule.



http://www.newsshopper.co.uk/sport/9430179.Addicks_sell_out_Fulham_allocation/?

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Jol denies Zamora row
Boss insists striker was not forced to train with reserves


Bobby Zamora: Has been linked with a move away from Fulham in January

Fulham manager Martin Jol has denied reports of a rift with Bobby Zamora and has no concerns over the striker leaving in January.

Reports on Tuesday suggested Zamora had been forced to train with the club's reserve team the previous day after a row with the Dutch boss.

The claims came after the frontman, who has been linked with a move away from Craven Cottage next month, missed Saturday's 2-0 victory over Bolton with a knee injury following a late fitness test.

Jol has rubbished suggestions Zamora trained with the reserves, insisting they did not even train on the day claimed.

Denied

He told Sky Sports News: "No, there were no reserves yesterday because they have a game today.

"We always train with the best group so Aaron Hughes was there, (Pajtim) Kasami, (Marcel) Gecov; all the players who were not involved in the game (on Saturday were there). That's the normal thing."

Jol has also rejected rumours of a row between him and the player, and when questioned on talk linking Zamora with a January exit added: "I'm not concerned.

"For me there is not a big problem. There are no problems that I know of, I don't think so."



http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11095/7389038/?

[WhiteJC]

 
Trotta Loan Extended

Fulham Development Squad striker Marcello Trotta will remain on loan at Wycombe Wanderers until the 14th January 2012.

Trotta's original loan deal was for a period of one month but after scoring three goals in three games the striker will remain at Adams Park for a further five matches over the festive period and into the New Year.

Academy graduate Trotta scored on his Wycombe debut and prior to his loan move Trotta netted nine times in seven games for Fulham's Reserve Team this season.



Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/December/TrottaLoanExtended.aspx?#ixzz1h9miDUdX

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Smalling salutes Fulham
Defender admits Cottagers played a crucial role in his development

Chris Smalling has thanked Fulham for helping him make the giant leap from Maidstone to Manchester United.

Smalling returns to his old club on Wednesday night when the Red Devils visit Craven Cottage chasing three more points in their quest to retain the Premier League title.

Although he only made 14 senior appearances for the West London club, it was the period between being snapped up from non-league to arriving at Old Trafford in 2010 that turned him into an England international.

"Without [former Fulham boss] Roy Hodgson giving me my chance there I wouldn't be here," Smalling said.

"I had a big two years there and it is a time I look back upon fondly. My first year was about finding my feet. The second was about showcasing what I can do.

"It'll be nice to go back and see a few of the players and play back at the Cottage."

Maximum

Manager Sir Alex Ferguson needs to decide what changes to make for United's second trip to London in four days.

The surprise return of Javier Hernandez from an ankle injury at QPR offers Ferguson a further attacking option, which provides the opportunity to drop Wayne Rooney back into a midfield role.

"The players always look forward to this time of year because there are plenty of games," said Smalling.

"We are used to the demands of so many games, so it is a big opportunity to pick up a lot of points - and we are aiming for the maximum.

"Christmas can be a hindrance on some and even make or break you in terms of kicking on. But this is a period where we really need to show everybody we mean business.

"Fulham have had a strong foundation there for the last few years and have kept the squad pretty solid."



http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11095/7389060/?

[WhiteJC]

 
Reserves 1-1 Liverpool

Fulham and Liverpool played out a highly entertaining one-all draw at Motspur Park on Tuesday afternoon. Liverpool took the lead through a second-half Conor Coady penalty but the Whites equalised with a strike from Cauley Woodrow.

Fulham got the match underway with Norwegian international Bjorn Helge Riise adding his experience to an otherwise youthful Fulham line-up featuring several promising Academy players.

After a tight start to the match the first chance of the match fell to Liverpool's towering striker, Michael Ngoo, after six minutes play.

A free-kick from the right, following a foul by Alex Smith on Nathan Eccleston down Fulham's left hand side, found Ngoo unmarked four yards from goal. Fortunately, Fulham goalkeeper Csaba Somogyi was perfectly positioned to save Ngoo's headed effort on the goal line.

Fulham winger Alex Kacaniklic burst through Liverpool's midfield on several occasions during the opening 15 minutes and was denied a one-on-one after 11 minutes after being brought down 20 yards from goal. Tom Donegan's resulting set piece flew over Martin Hansen's cross bar.

Tuesday's visitors certainly possessed an abundance of pace and trickery down the flanks in the form of Nathan Eccleston and Raheem Sterling. However, Fulham's full backs, Alex Smith and Alex Brister did a fine job of cutting Liverpool's supply line on Tuesday afternoon.

Tom Donegan went closer than his earlier set piece effort with his second attempt of the match after 17 minutes, forcing Martin Hansen into diving save to deny Fulham.

As the half-hour mark approached Fulham possessed the greater attacking threat with Kacaniklic impressing against his former club. However actual goal chances were few and far between as both teams remained defensively solid.

After 26 minutes play Fulham produced a superb passage of play that resulted in Cauley Woodrow heading against the cross bar. Fulham moved the ball from back to front with a lengthy spell of possession and patient build-up play. The final delivery eventually came from the right flank but Woodrow was denied by the woodwork.

Liverpool responded immediately through Raheem Sterling, who curled a fine shot to the far corner of the goal from the left hand side of the area. Once again Somogyi was perfectly positioned to collect with a diving save.

Cauley Woodrow was offered another sight of goal barely a minute later but the striker failed to direct his header past Martin Hansen after finding space in a crowded area.

Joshua Pritchard, playing in central defence alongside Daniel Burn, performed superbly against the physically imposing Michael Ngoo during the first-half. Despite the striker's clear physical advantage, Pritchard stood toe to toe with the striker and was rarely beaten in the air.

Pritchard's no nonsense approach earned him a booking after 36 minutes after the defender brought Sterling down with a late tackle in the middle of the park.

As half-time approached Liverpool attacked down Fulham's right channel but Fulham looked more than comfortable and Somogyi was forced to make just one clean and relatively simple save before the break.

Three minutes before half-time Alex Smith's desire was almost rewarded with a goal when the left back raced on to a pass through Liverpool's defence with an overlapping run. Smith's shot across goal agonisingly swept wide of Martin Hansen's far post. Whilst it remained goalless at the break Fulham had enjoyed arguably the better chances during the first half.

Liverpool started the second-half in fine form but winger Eccleston earning himself a yellow card after falling a little too easily inside the area. Liverpool were awarded a penalty 15 minutes into the second half that Conor Coady dispatched to earn the visitors a lead.

The second-half continued at and entertaining pace with both sides displaying excellent close control and technique.

Fulham came close to netting the equaliser on 61 minutes when another positive run from Alex Smith down the left flank resulted in Courtney Harris ariving at the far post to volley just over the bar.

The action switched to the other end and an outstanding reaction save from Somogyi denied a certain second for Liverpool after Eccleston got on the end of a Raheem Sterling cross.

Fulham were back on level terms on 73 minutes. Alex Smith, an ever-present threat down the left wing for the Whites, supplied the cross which found Alex Kacaniklic on the right side of the area. The winger jinked past his marker and laid a pass to Cauley Woodrow, who finished emphatically from five yards – setting up a thrilling finale.

Driving runs from Bjorn Helge Riise and Tom Donegan spearheaded the Whites' attacking endeavours as Fulham looked to finish the game stronger.

However there were some nervous moments for Fulham's defence seven minutes from time when Sterling was put clean through on goal. Fulham's keeper raced to the edge of his area to challenge the onrushing attacker, taking the ball but also giving away a free kick on the edge of the area resulting in a yellow card. The resulting free kick struck the wall and was cleared to safety.

Fulham finished the game controlling possession but were unable to fashion any further opportunities.

Fulham: Somogyi, Brister (Dean 60), Smith, Pritchard, Burn, Minkwitz (Altman 60), Harris, B. Riise, Woodrow, Donegan, Kacaniklic

Subs not used: Joronen, Bettache, Banya



Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/December/ReservesvLiverpool.aspx?#ixzz1h9nGVFZl

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Martin Jol concerned by Bobby Zamora unrest talk

Fulham manager Martin Jol admits the regularity of reports regarding Bobby Zamora's future is becoming a concern.

There has been mounting speculation over recent weeks that the pair's relationship is fraught, leading to suggestions the England international could leave Craven Cottage in January.

Jol has constantly batted back such talk and was forced to once again today after a report that Zamora was told to train with the reserves yesterday.

"No, there is no reserves yesterday because we have a game today," Jol said.

"We always train with a rest group (those not involved in the match against Bolton) so Aaron Hughes was there, [Pajtim] Kasami, [Marcel] Gecov. All the players who were not involved in the game.

"That is the normal thing to give them extra loading.

"I don't know what they are on about and it was not with the reserve team coaches.

"There is no rift, Bobby is Bobby.

"He was fine yesterday, he trained with all the players who didn't start.

"Those 14 did a session to load them, and he was fine."

The speculation has seen Zamora linked with a host of Barclays Premier League clubs, including QPR, Tottenham and Sunderland.

"I'm not concerned," Jol said. "For me it's not a big problem.

"I'm only concerned that this sort of thing is coming up all the time.

"I don't know but for me there is no problem."

Jol will be able to welcome Zamora back for tomorrow's match against Manchester United, having missed Saturday's 2-0 defeat of Bolton with a medial ligament injury in his left knee.

"We have always had that belief," Jol said of the Bolton victory.

"The only difference is we got the points and played well, scored a couple of goals and didn't concede.

"Obviously United can punish you and sometimes they will.

"Man United and Chelsea, for example, they have got the extra quality if you give them space.

"We allowed Bolton to have six or seven shots but you cannot allow the likes of Man United to do that.

"I think every game stands on itself. Liverpool was good, Man City was nice but Man United is probably different.

"You have to play to your strengths and that is what we will try to do and try to avoid them exploiting us with their quality.

"We had a 3-0 win and a 2-2 draw recently so we seem to do well against them.

"I think it could be coincidence but it could be our style as well."

While Zamora returns to face Sir Alex Ferguson's side, Steve Sidwell continues to miss out after a hernia operation and fellow midfielder Simon Davies has a back complaint.

"Sidwell is still not training with us so it's a bit of a blow," Jol added.

"He had his hernia operation and sometimes he can feel it in his hip then his groin and then stomach.

"It is a complex area and we try to do everything we can to get him back and the medical staff are quite positive he will join us next week.

"Mark Schwarzer is out for four to six weeks so it is good to have a very good keeper in David Stockdale and I feel the youngster Neil Etheridge is a very good goalkeeper.

"We haven't got a lot of injuries so that is a good situation to be in before the Christmas period."


http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/martin-jol-concerned-by-bobby-zamora-unrest-talk-6279763.html?

[WhiteJC]

 
Bet on Man Utd to end Fulham's winning streak at the Cottage
Fulham have won their last two games at Craven Cottage to nil but are likely to find things more difficult against Man Utd.

Martin Jol's men might be nine places below them in the Premier League table, but at first glance an away trip to Fulham sounds like a potential banana skin for Manchester United.

This has certainly proved the case in the Red Devils' last three trips to Craven Cottage: their most recent encounter ended in a 2-2 draw, while the two previous meetings ended in comprehensive defeats.

In March 2009, Fulham triumphed 2-0 before following this up with a 3-0 success in December of the same year.

The latter game saw United hampered by a lengthy injury list, with Michael Carrick and Darren Fletcher forced to fill in at centre-back due to a defensive crisis.

While things aren't quite so bad this year, United boss Sir Alex Ferguson will be without Anderson, Tom Cleverley, Darren Fletcher, Rafael, Michael Owen and Nemanja Vidic

Meanwhile, Fulham have won their last two home games without conceding a goal in a sequence which includes a 1-0 victory over Liverpool on 5th December.

But despite these bad omens, it is the Red Devils who go into the match as favourites in bwin's 3Way football betting market, and odds-on favourites at that.

Man Utd are priced at 67/100 to secure all three points, leaving the draw at 27/10 and a home success at 4/1.

For while they might be struggling with injuries, out of the Champions League and out of the Carling Cup, United have picked up 16 points from their last six league matches to make them the most in-form team in the top flight.

Fulham have averaged just 1.13 goals a game so far this season, and when an anomalous-looking 6-0 win over QPR is removed from the equation this average is reduced to 0.8.

Indeed, they appear to have moved up a gear following their Champions League exit to Basel two weeks ago, with comprehensive wins over Wolves and QPR recorded since then.

It is also worth noting that Craven Cottage is hardly a fortress, with Tottenham recording a 3-1 win there in November, Everton triumphing by the same scoreline just two weeks earlier and Aston Villa, Blackburn and Manchester City all securing draws.

And with Manchester United having the best away record in the Premier League this season, a fourth straight league win for the Red Devils looks to be on the cards.

Furthermore, with Fulham hardly prolific in attack and United conceding just three times away from home this season, Ferguson's men could be on their way to a win to nil at 33/20.

Fulham have averaged just 1.13 goals a game so far this season, and when an anomalous-looking 6-0 win over QPR is removed from the equation this average is reduced to 0.8.

On the other hand, United have not conceded in an away league game since a 1-1 draw with Liverpool on 15th October, meaning another clean sheet for the Red Devils would be far from surprising.

Another bet to consider would be on United to take a lead into the break and to still be in front at the final whistle.

The defending champions have been ahead at the interval in six of their eight away games this season, pointing to a Manchester United/Manchester United half time/full time bet at odds of 3/2.

Finally, if Fulham do manage to score then they are far more likely to do so in the second half than the first.

Seventy-nine per cent of the 14 league goals let in by United this season have been conceded in the second half.

This makes odds of 7/5 on Fulham to score more goals after the break than before the interval a good option to consider for football betting fans who think the home team will have some success against the league's second-meanest defence.


http://bwinbetting.com/bet-man-utd-fulhams-winning-streak-cottage,12002.html?