Thursday Fulham Stuff (15/08/13)...

[WhiteJC]

 
QPR assistant fears Crystal Palace and Fulham will pounce for Spurs star

Kevin Bond, Harry Redknapp's number two at QPR, has given his backing to the club's pursuit of Scott Parker – but fears the R's could be gazumped by a Premier League rival.

The R's have been strongly linked with a move for Tottenham midfielder Parker, with manager Redknapp confirming that he is hopeful of bringing the player to Loftus Road.

Bond is aware of QPR's interest in Parker, but with Crystal Palace and Fulham also said to be keen, he believes it could prove tricky to persuade the England international to drop down into the Championship.

Bond told talkSPORT: "I know we are interested in Scott.

"Quite where we are with him at this stage, I'm not certain. Harry has been a big admirer of Scott for a long time and, if it was to happen, it would be a great acquisition for QPR.

"However, if a Premier League club came in for him, that is the holy grail for players, so it will be difficult."


http://www.london24.com/sport/qpr_2_5433/qpr_assistant_fears_crystal_palace_and_fulham_will_pounce_for_spurs_star_1_2334710

[WhiteJC]

 
International Fans: FulhamNYC



All summer we're profiling some of Fulham's international fan groups and, in our final feature before the start of the new season, we caught up with the New York City supporters' group which is headed up by John Ponessa.
Presumably the influx of American players at Fulham was a contributing factor to the Club's popularity in the States?
Since 1999, there has been an American player influence within the Club, starting with Marcus Hahnemann and Eddie Lewis, but more attention was garnered with the rise of Brian McBride. Then, as painful, and later triumphant, as the 2007/08 season's 'Great Escape' was, it was a huge season for FulhamNYC as the American influence within the squad peaked with McBride, Carlos Bocanegra, Clint Dempsey, and Eddie Johnson. This brought a lot of supporters out of virtual forums and into the world of supporter bar culture in New York City.

Do you have a regular meeting point where you watch games together?
During the 2006/07 season, Fulham supporters were a scattered bunch in New York City. Few of us knew that there were others who supported the Club in the city, let alone where to find them. Nevada Smith's was quickly establishing itself as the official bar to watch soccer in this huge city, with the tagline 'Where Football Is Religion.' Thanks to the efforts of Jack Keane, the word slowly spread of the now well-known venue, that has since sadly closed.

However, despite Nevada's reputation, there was still confusion as to where to go. Thankfully, the Fulham USA message boards became instrumental as a beacon for local supporters. One could post about the following weekend's match and suggest a venue to unite. Attendance went from two or three coincidental supporters showing up to watch a match, to around six to eight, and even more for popular matches!



How have you grown as a supporters' group in the years since?
Throughout our successful UEFA Europa League campaign, we saw our numbers rise with more consistent supporter showings week in and week out. While the American influence on the first team has waned, we are very happy to see Emerson Hyndman quickly rising through the ranks as one of our most talented Academy players, and we are still continuing to grow.

Now, we're a prominent fixture at Jack Keane's new venue at Legend's Bar, The Football Factory, located at 6 West 33rd Street, across from the Empire State Building. We're now a diversified group of 17 official members, with over 25 showing up on a big matchday! Our group consists of expats and American fans, members who have supported the Club since birth, as well as new fans recently discovering the wonders of English football, with many travelling multiple times per season to watch our boys in white play overseas.

What can fans expect if they join FulhamNYC?
The Football Factory is an ideal venue for our supporters group with the many innovations they provide for their football patrons. This season, in addition to the benefits received from Fulham Football Club as an international member as a part of FulhamNYC, you will also receive a special member's card for the Football Factory that entitles you to a special discount at the bar whenever you go! These cards cost $5 each but get you 10 per cent off your bill at Legend's at any time of the day or night, seven days a week. With this perk, along with the help of our Facebook group, we've made it easy for people all over the world to join us if they happen to be in our fair city on matchday, as well as continuing to expand FulhamNYC.



We saw a great mock-up on Twitter recently of Dimitar Berbatov taking over Times Square. What was that about?
As for the Times Square sign, one of our members Jesse Snyder is a graphic designer. He's designing a few t-shirts for us and actually designed our flag that is being made in the next few weeks. He was experimenting with new designs and came up with that concept of FulhamNYC in Times Square and made a great picture! He's done all of our designs down to the FulhamNYC logo. He's an ace designer as you can see and we're ecstatic to have him with us and that he takes the time to do this great stuff on his own!

For more information regarding FulhamNYC, email [email protected]



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2013/august/14/fulhamnyc?

[WhiteJC]

 
Dimitar Berbatov's Value to Fulham: £4 Million into 15 Goals

It's difficult to make an appraisal of a player's value to his club after only one season—that is, if the player is a 25-year-old or even a 28-year-old.

Just look at Antonio Valencia; one fantastic season for Manchester United that won him the famous number seven shirt, only for his next season's form to be so bad that he reverted back to his former number 25.

But 32-year-old Dimitar Berbatov is a player Fulham manager Martin Jol will be looking at very closely.

Fulham are clearly in the market for a striker as evidenced by their failed bids to bring Darren Bent to Craven Cottage, and with Marcello Trotta back from his loan at Brentford the Bulgarian will be looking over his shoulder.

Signed for £4.4 million from Manchester United last summer after struggling to feature regularly enough in Sir Alex Ferguson's plans, Berbatov found a new lease of life in West London. As a result we witnessed a far more spritely and energised version of a player who was so often described as languid.

Obviously buoyed by his new status as the star striker, Berbatov covered the pitch in a manner rarely, if ever, seen at United and Tottenham Hotspur—he could almost have been a different man altogether.

The vitality in Berbatov's game translated into goals, 15 of them in 33 matches to be precise—a very good return for his relatively low price. However, with the uncontrollable creep of age on a player come the doubts of his manager, who will then seek to—sometimes reluctantly—pave the way for new blood.

Although their attempts to land Bent were unsuccessful, Fulham will most likely bring in an alternative before the end of the transfer window. That does not mean Berbatov's days are over, at least not for the moment.

A veteran player of 252 goals from 550 games in all competitions for top-tier clubs, plus a couple of Premier League titles and a World Club Championship victory, Berbatov will remain important to the development of Fulham even if his considerable ability starts to falter.

Younger players could learn a thing or two from someone with one of the best first touches in football, but that is not the entire picture.

Berbatov's trademark, however unwanted, is to appear uninvolved for long periods before popping up with a moment of sheer brilliance.

At Fulham this label has peeled a little, but if his fitness levels do begin to drop, unlike most players he can rely on his knack of being in the right place at the right time without breaking sweat. Perhaps the years of minimal running effort may benefit his career in the long-term as his legs will not be quite as battered as the majority of players.

Furthermore, Fulham have a top-class striker on their books, and as long as Berbatov continues to perform they can use this to attract other quality players.

Even if he does begin to feature less frequently, he will continue to be a great presence at the training ground for the young forwards—anyone who knows their football would jump at the chance to learn from and work with Dimitar Berbatov.

Teammates will hope that is at least a couple of years in the future. Judging by last season, Berbatov is relishing his freedom on the pitch and will have a few more tricks up his sleeve before calling it a day.

But the real winners are Jol and Fulham. Regardless of how Berbatov's form fluctuates—barring a 20-game goalless run or something equally unthinkable—he remains an asset.

Experience, star quality, a colourful career and shirt sales all serve their purpose for a football club, especially when they were purchased at such a bargain price.

Can you imagine another Premier League season top-scorer of the last few years—such as Robin van Persie, who is only two years younger than Berbatov—going for a price as low as Fulham had to pay?

Carlos Tevez went to Juventus this summer in a deal worth £12 million, but think of all the baggage and the fact that Manchester City saved about £27 million in wages and add-ons.

So, Berbatov's value to Fulham? If you don't know the answer, just look at his scoring stats.



http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1737168-dimitar-berbatovs-value-to-fulham-4-million-into-15-goals?

[WhiteJC]

 
Riise & Fall
by LRCN on AUGUST 14, 2013



When John Arne-Riise signed from Roma for what seemed a bargain fee back in 2011, I think most Fulham fans would have both been delighted at the news and eagerly anticipated his contribution. Known – from his previous years in England with Liverpool – for scorching off-the-ball runs from left back into the opposition box and a left foot so fierce it could rival the hammer of Thor (it literally broke someone's leg once), the prospect of Riise at Fulham was an exciting one and representative of Martin Jol's attacking philosophy with an emphasise on wing play.

Fast forward two years and the club are so keen to get him – and his wages – off the books that they've let him know that he is available to leave for free, despite having a year of his contract remaining. Most fans wouldn't bemoan his exit either, despite having just injury-prone Richardson and the inexperienced Briggs remaining as left back (although, we've been closely linked with Aaron Cresswell, a very good young left back). Werder Bremen have publicly announced their interest, and Riise has implied his unhappiness at both Richardson being first choice left back in pre-season and with the general situation at the club. All in all, it seems as if a move away would suit everyone.

So where did it all go wrong for the man who never lived up to his reputation? I think it'd be more apt to say it was never right to begin with. His debut against Villa at home saw Murphy pick out a surging Riise who escaped behind the defence, only to drag his shot wide. A sign of things to come we'd have hoped, but it turns out we should have been paying more attention to the missed shot than the movement. His form quickly disappeared, and he offered none of that blazing shot or enthusiastic running we'd thought he had in him, although it picked back up again towards the end of the 2011-2012 season. Last season was entirely unspectacular however – in a season full of disappointments, to be fair – reaching a crux at the end of the calendar year when, against Southampton at home, he dummied a clearance while under pressure from opposition midfielder Ramirez, before turning and walking back to the half way line while the ball was still in play (Ramirez picked the ball up, cut in to the box and the ball was cleared, but part of me wanted them to score just to show Riise up). He was dropped for a while after that, with Jol's patience finally snapped, and it looked as if he wouldn't play again before Richardson picked up another injury, giving Riise a few games at the back end of last season where his exuberant running seemed to completely disappear.

A player who game with big expectations, Riise has been utterly underwhelming, and it's a shame because I was really expecting him to provide a lot of fun on the pitch. I was hoping he'd be able to make an impact at least this season after hearing of his intense off-season cardio work, but not much has appeared to have changed, and I think the final straw really was when we were away at Liverpool earlier this year and he paid more attention to the home fans than to his own. Two seasons in and not a goal to his name, it looks like time has run out for Riise in England, whether he stays with Fulham or leaves for pastures new.

LRCN



http://hammyend.com/index.php/2013/08/riise-fall/?

[WhiteJC]

 
Transfer news: QPR see second bid for Tottenham's Scott Parker accepted

Sky Sports understands Queens Park Rangers have had a second bid for Scott Parker accepted, but are wary of Fulham's reported interest in the Tottenham Hotspur midfielder.

QPR boss Harry Redknapp has aired his optimism regarding a deal for the England international, with an agreement to bring the 32-year-old to Loftus Road believed to be close.

It is understood that he is poised to undergo a medical with the Championship promotion hopefuls, which would leave him on the verge of a summer switch.

QPR are, however, aware that they are not the only side to have expressed an interest in Parker's services.

Fulham are the latest club said to be readying an approach for a proven top flight performer.

Were the Cottagers to make a move, QPR assistant manager Kevin Bond acknowledges that it would be difficult to compete with a Premier League suitor.

He said in the Evening Standard: "If a Premier League club came in for him, that is the holy grail for players, so it will be difficult."



http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11675/8869858?

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham season preview

It's a make or break season for Martin Jol's tenure at Fulham.
What's changed since last season?
Little on the playing front suggests Fulham will be any better than last season. However, the massive change over the summer came with the surprising news that benefactor supreme Mohammed al Fayed was stepping down. Having single-handedly taken a club that was on the verge of bankruptcy in 1997 into the top flight - and kept them there for 13 seasons - it shows how the rise in Fulham's status has all come about from his towering presence as chairman. At 84-years-old he now wants to spend more time with his family. Even more commendable was the fact that al Fayed left the club debt free and thus was able to swiftly engineer transfer of ownership. The new man at the top is US-based Pakistani billionaire Shahid Khan. If Khan can get close to 50% of what al Fayed achieved then Fulham may prosper for many years to come.

Key to this campaign?
We are yet to see the colour of Khan's money. Fulham, as it now becomes clear, have spent two seasons under-investing on the playing side in order to present a strong set of accounts. There's nothing wrong with that strategy, but the Premier League and the riches it carries builds its own critical mass. Treading water for too long will see you go under.

On the playing front, Fulham have gone backwards in three seasons, being reluctant to radically re-shape the 2010 Europa League side of superheroes. Fresh blood is now called for, and though Fulham have left it late to really make a big splash in the market, last season's side slipped too close to the relegation zone for comfort - a final placing of 12th flatters them and Martin Jol. Early signs in pre-season friendlies indicated another season of struggle without an injection of quality for the campaign ahead.

Another striker to take the weight off Dimitar Berbatov's shoulders (15 last season) is a must, along with reinforcements to midfield and at left-back. The three signings made to date were all in a way business that could not, for one reason or another, be wrapped up last January. Maarten Stekelenburg and Derek Boateng look solid enough acquisitions, while questions remain as to how Venezuelan centre-back Fernando Amorebieta adapts to the Premier League.

It's hard to be too gung-ho with a prediction at this point, but expect two or three big name arrivals before the end of the month. Should that happen, Fulham will comfortably survive in mid-table and may for once make some noise in the cup competitions.

Predicted finish/realistic goal
It will be three places either side of 11th I suspect, which will more than keep the fans happy. Should the side fail to gel, suffer with injuries, or make none of the signings needed, then Khan will be forced into spending again in January. And should the roof fall in at the Cottage...

Make or break season for...
It will spell curtains for Martin Jol. The bookies already have him priced at 4/1 second favourite to be the first manager to get the chop. Khan changed his complete staff roster after the Jacksonville Jaguars first disastrous NFL season once he took over. Martin, you have still to prove you have what it takes down by the Thames. Year three of your project and this is your last chance. The same goes for your underwhelming £10 million man Bryan Ruiz.

One to watch
You might nominate Adel Taarabt just for the soap opera his antics will inspire. Adel's simply not as good as he thinks he is. The thought of the petulance, play-acting and posturing Fulham might be witnessing once he, Ruiz and Berbatov between them have spent 90 minutes failing to create a single opening is enough to have anyone pack tranquilizers along with their matchday Mars bar. On a more positive note, Boateng may turn out to be an unsung hero, a willing dray horse who gets the job done rather than some of the more expensive show ponies around him.



http://espnfc.com/blog/_/name/fulham/id/1177?&cc=5739

[WhiteJC]

 
Premier League Preview: Fulham - Can Jol coax more from ageing bones?

The Big Issue: Can Jol coax more from ageing bones?

What do John Arne Riise, Brede Hangeland, Steve Sidwell, Dimitar Berbatov, Giorgios Karagounis, Damien Duff, Aaron Hughes, Sascha Riether and Mark Schwarzer all have in common? Each of that nine started more than half of Fulham's league games last season – and each ended the season over the age of 30. Of course, that isn't a total disaster: the superb right back Riether is in his prime at 30, while 40-year-old Schwarzer has moved on. But the fact remains that the core of Fulham's squad are closing in on their autumn years.

Manager Martin Jol knows this, and has quietly begun refreshing his squad. Maarten Stekelenburg is also aged 30, but that's a baby in goalkeeper years – and signing a Dutch international (who played in the last World Cup final) looks great business at an estimated £3m. Loanee Adel Taarabt offers raw talent to go with his youth, but it's doubtful as to whether another mercurial-but-lazy attacker is what Fulham really need. What they do require is new owner Shahid Khan to twirl his mighty moustache and cough up for a new central midfielder or two before the start of the season. Jol has the nous and class of player to keep clear of a relegation battle, but this remains a squad that requires new blood.

Keep an eye on...
Bryan Ruiz - It's wakey-wakey time, Bryan. Don't worry: that portly figure standing over you isn't Tony Soprano, but his Dutch lookalike Martin Jol – and he's simply working out how to get the best from a versatile attacker of flair and vision but one who has, at times, flattered to deceive with Fulham. For a player with his ability, seven goals over two seasons isn't enough. It's time for the Costa Rican to kick on, and Jol plays football that suits his style.

The Stat
30% - Languid fop Dimitar Berbatov netted 30 per cent (or 15 of 50) of Fulham's Premier League goals last season. No-one else managed more than five. What's that you say... dependent much?

If they were an animal, they would be a...
Water vole - Small, river-dwelling creature. Generally well-liked and cute to look at, but not very scary to encounter.

Prediction:14th


Read more at http://talksport.com/football/premier-league-preview-fulham-can-jol-coax-more-ageing-bones-13081455568#EsChcjVKZlWHtmHG.99

[WhiteJC]

 
The Fulham Jaguars? New owner Shahid Khan has 'no intention of messing' with the club's name
Suggestion came after Hull City officially added Tigers to their name

Fulham owner Shahid Khan has ruled out rebranding the club as the Jaguars in the wake of Hull City having added Tigers to their name.

Khan believes a club's name is sacrosanct and does not plan to follow the lead of the Assem Allam who wants the club to be known as Hull City Tigers nationally and Hull Tigers internationally.

It is a month since Pakistan-born billionaire Khan completed his purchase of the Barclays Premier League club.

Khan has been busy making his mark at the west London club, with on and off-field plans continuing apace.

One of his immediate goals is to create a links between Fulham and his NFL franchise Jacksonville Jaguars, who will play a regular season game at Wembley for the next four years.

Khan, though, is keen to stress such a tie-up will see both retain separate identities and promised never to mess with the club name like the high-profile case of Hull.

"We won't be becoming Fulham Jaguars," he told Press Association Sport.

"I don't think they are the things [we would change].

"Fulham Football Club is how it was way before my lifetime and that is hopefully how it will be a long time after I am gone.

"Both Fulham and the Jaguars really have to operate as their own entities and they have their own core fans and obviously the sports are unique.

"We want to look for areas where they can work together and I think most of those are going to be on the business side.

"Anything historical like that, I absolutely have no intention of messing with."

Khan has big boots to fill at Craven Cottage having replaced Mohamed Al Fayed as owner after 16 years in which he transformed the club.

The new owner has spoken to the Egyptian a few times since completing his takeover and plans are afoot to honour the former chairman.

Some fans suggest the renaming of the soon-to-be-redeveloped Riverside Stand in his honour would be a suitable gesture and is one of several ideas under consideration.

"Let's face it, I don't think the club would probably be around without Mr Al Fayed," Khan said.

"I think he is a huge part of Fulham and, with the role he played, you have to respect and honour him in some way.

"What exactly it is, there are a lot of irons in the fire but definitely I think you have to honour all his contributions towards Fulham."

Khan has been splitting his time between his Florida home and London since completing the takeover and will be at Craven Cottage for the first home game of the season against Arsenal.

He revealed a new signing is set to be announced imminently and more could follow before the big match as he looks for a year of improvement.

Asked what would represent a successful first year in charge, Khan said: "It is very simple: we got better. That would be for me what we want to do on and off the field.

"Number one is performance on the pitch. We finished 12th last season and I would hope we do better.

"Performance off the pitch is important and it is indicative that in future years that we have supporters, corporate and otherwise, that will help the club move forward."

PA



http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/the-fulham-jaguars-new-owner-shahid-khan-has-no-intention-of-messing-with-the-clubs-name-8761592.html

[WhiteJC]

 
Premier League Preview: Stoke - Is Mark Hughes the answer?

The Big Issue: Is Mark Hughes the answer?

It's trendy to mock Mark Hughes. Dubbed a "strange man" by Mohamed Al-Fayed post-Fulham, he seemed hapless during his QPR stint and seems to have a bizarre obsession with signing Roque Santa Cruz. Yet Hughes seems unfairly maligned. Yes, QPR was a disaster, but his record with Blackburn, Fulham and the Wales national team is largely positive (Manchester City is trickier to judge).

At Stoke, however, he faces a near impossible task: taking over from a successful manager and being asked to tweak their brand of football, yet not being given the funds he needs to revamp a squad that desperately requires new blood.

But how badly? Well, put it this way: the favourite to be Stoke's top scorer this season is the 32-year-old Peter Crouch, who got seven goals in 34 league games in 2012-13. Hughes can rely on Robert Huth and Ryan Shawcross at the back, but his signings haven't set the Potteries alight. Dutch full-back Erik Pieters comes in for £3m, while 21-year-old Spanish defender Marc Muniesa is snaffled from Barcelona's reserves on a free. Let's hope Hughes gets to invest a little more before the transfer window closes, or the Britannia could be a bleak place for more than just the visitors this season.

Keep an eye on...
Asmir Begovic - When Stoke snapped up young English keeper Jack Butland, it seemed a tacit admission that prize asset Begovic was on his way out. However, unless the 26-year-old Bosnian cad has pulled a fast one on Stoke by the time you read this, he looks set to stay. Relief sweeps the Britannia. Begovic kept 12 clean sheets in the league last season and is a commanding aerial presence. A crucial part of Stoke's generally miserly defence.

The Stat
£88m - Since 2006-07, Stoke's net transfer spend is an estimated £88m – the same as Manchester United's over the same period. No wonder the coffers are now a bit bare.

If they were an animal, they would be a...
Gorilla - Gruff, hairy, muscular backside (Stoke the Gorilla, that is – not Mark Hughes), but might prove a poor swimmer if the tide of relegation draws near.

Prediction: 18th


Read more at http://talksport.com/football/premier-league-preview-stoke-mark-hughes-answer-13081455583#UOqzulofM8flmfzk.99

[WhiteJC]

 
Benfica to challenge Fulham, Southampton and Inter Milan for Pablo Osvaldo

BENFICA are set to enter the fray for Roma midfielder Pablo Osvaldo this window.


Pablo Osvaldo has piqued the interest of Fulham and Southampton

The talented former Fiorentina star was previously linked to Spurs but they have since cooled their interest.

Roma seem reluctant to offload Osvaldo to a rival with a midfielder keen to remain in Italy to boost his chances of making the squad for the World Cup next summer.

Reports in Italy suggest that Benfica officials have touched down in Rome to kickstart negotiations for a move.


Benfica have staked an interest in Pablo Osvaldo


Daniele De Rossi said he would be sorry to see Osvaldo leave

If he leaves then Roma would be losing a very strong player and I will be losing a friend
Daniele De Rossi
However, his wages are believed to be a potential stumbling block as he currently earns £1.7m a season.

Chelsea target Daniele De Rossi admits he would be sad to see Osvaldo leave.

He said: "I don't know if I'm optimistic or not when it comes to Osvaldo's future here.

"If he leaves then Roma would be losing a very strong player and I will be losing a friend. He's a good guy, on and off the pitch.



http://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/422052/Benfica-to-challenge-Fulham-Southampton-and-Inter-Milan-for-Pablo-Osvaldo?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+daily-express-sport-news+%28Daily+Express+%3A%3A+Sport+Feed%29

[WhiteJC]

 
Away Kit Available Now



The brand new adidas Away Kit is now available to buy instore or online.

Already a big hit with the Fulham fans, many of the new red Away shirts (and several of the 2000/01 design from which it is inspired) were spotted in the crowd at last Saturday's friendly fixture against Parma.

What's more, the shirt will feature throughout the 2014/15 campaign as our Third strip, so the squad will be sporting it for a full two seasons.

To celebrate the arrival of the new kit, the Club secured the services of Fulham legends Kit Symons, Luis Boa Morte and Rufus Brevett to be part of the campaign.

So make sure you get your new adidas Away kit online, direct on 0843 208 1223, or come and see us at the Stadium Store.

Watch the video below which shows how the kit has evolved from 2000/01 for the coming campaign, and take a look at some of the best moments from our promotion season as well our Fulham legends modelling the latest version!



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2013/august/14/away-kit-available?

[WhiteJC]

 
Parker Chase?
   
The possible availability of the Spurs / England midfielder Scott Parker (32), saw Queens Park Rangers show an immediate interest.

In fact a fee of £3.5 million for Parker saw our West London neighbours chomping at the bit to tie Scott to a contract.

But, it would appear, Parker would prefer to remain in the Premier League and could well do with it being inferred that Fulham Football Club are looking at trying to persuade Parker that his interests would be much better served, especially with a World Cup coming up!


Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=328653#ixzz2c0Yu71UP

[WhiteJC]

 
Young Striker Coming
   
The lure of Craven Cottage could well see a young Belgian striker signed up.

Reports suggest that Julien Ngoy, just fifteen years of age, having spent a week on trial at Fulham Football Club is set to ignore the advances of Arsenal and Chelsea to sign for us.


Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=328654#ixzz2c0Z9PWla

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham bid for Parker reportedly accepted; Cottagers battle QPR for England midfielder

Last night we heard grumblings that Fulham might come in and make a late swoop for Scott Parker, even though Queens Park Rangers apparently had a bid accepted and Parker looked willing to consider a step down to the Championship. Apparently, there was at least a bit of truth to those rumors. John Percy of the Telegraph tweeted that Fulham have had a bid for Parker accepted.

It's now going to be up to Parker to decide his future if Percy's information is correct. Given that Fulham are weak in the center of midfield and the fact that England's midfield is a revolving door, Parker could opt to go with the Cottagers, since a World Cup place is very much within his reach.



http://www.cartilagefreecaptain.com/2013/8/14/4620960/scott-parker-tottenham-hotspur-transfer-rumours?

[WhiteJC]

 
Hughes Helps Irish Upset

Defender Aaron Hughes played all 90 minutes for Northern Ireland as they shocked Russia 1-0 at home in FIFA World Cup Qualifying Group F.

The Irish were all over Russia in the opening exchanges and the defence was able to play the long ball forward with a high degree of accuracy. However Hughes, slotting in at right-back, was called into action to snuff out the danger as the half wore on with Russia gaining more of a foothold in the game.

It was the Irish who took the lead before the break though as Jamie Ward hammered a shot against the post on 40 minutes and spurred his teammates into action. Minutes later a fine cross was headed home by Martin Paterson and the jubilant Irish went into half-time on a high.

Paterson was unlucky to be flagged offside in the 57th minute when he headed home from close range but the Irish held on in the face of some heavy pressure to seal an historic win which moves them up to fourth place in the table and closes the gap to within six points of the second qualifying spot.

In international friendly action, Alexander Kačaniklić may have been missing because of a hamstring injury, but Sweden were still too good for local rivals Norway and Whites Captain Brede Hangeland as they won 4-2.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic shocked the Norway defence by slipping in to score inside two minutes and then found a gap to stroke home his second in the 28th minute to put Sweden well on the way to victory. But Norway found a way back before half-time as Mohammed Abdellaoue was flattened in the box and dusted himself off to net from the penalty spot in the 38th minute. The away side were then level on 42 minutes as Stefan Johansen's 25 yard drive was deflected into the net.

Norway had no answer to the Paris Saint-Germain striker though and, 11 minutes after the break, Zlatan powered a free-kick into the corner of the net to make it 3-2 and claim his hat-trick. Substitute Anders Svensson made it 4-2 on 74 minutes to kill the game off.

Facing up against the likes of Neymar and Hulk, Philippe Senderos started at centre-back for Switzerland as they beat Brazil 1-0 in a friendly at St Jakob-Park in Basel. The defender went into the book in the first 10 minutes as new Barcelona signing Neymar skipped past him on the halfway line and he held the forward back, but looked assured for the rest of the game.

Brazil were unable to break through the Swiss line and, shortly after half-time, a defensive aberration from Dani Alves saw Switzerland go ahead when he headed into his own net without an opposing player anywhere near him. With their trademark flair deserting them, Brazil's players were unable to find a way back and the Swiss held on for a famous victory.

Elsewhere, goalkeeper Jesse Joronen captained Finland Under-21s as they beat Wales 5-1 in a UEFA Under-21 European Championship Qualifier. The Fins raced into a 4-0 lead at half-time thanks to goals from Tim Väyrynen (2), Kastriot Kastrati and Moshtagh Yaghoubi. Joronen was only called into action to make one first half save in the 39th minute but was forced to pick the ball out of the net as Emyr Huws converted a penalty early in the second half.

Väyrynen netted his hat-trick soon after to secure the points and the result sees Finland jump to the top of Group One on goal difference (although level on four points with Lithuania) as it has won one and drawn one of its two matches.

Pajtim Kasami's Switzerland Under-21s fell 5-2 to Portugal U-21s in a friendly in Setubal. The away side took the lead through Oliver Buff in the 19th minute, but an Ivan Cavaleiro hat-trick helped to put paid to the Swiss hopes in what was eventually a convincing win despite Josip Drmic's consolation.

And Lasse Vigen Christensen came on in the 60th minute as Denmark Under-21s beat Northern Ireland U-21s comfortably 4-1 at Stangmore Park. Patrick Jensen put the Danes ahead before Adam Thompson hit the Irish level. Three second half goals from Nicolaj Brock-Madsen (2) and Bassel Jradi then ended the tie just after Lasse's arrival from the bench.



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2013/august/14/hughes-helps-irish-upset?

[WhiteJC]

 
John Arne Riise Drops Fulham Stay Hint



Norwegian defender still unsure as to what the future holds.

Fulham defender John Arne Riise has said that it is not a foregone conclusion that he will be leaving Fulham but has expressed his desire to head back home before calling time on his career, Sky Sports reports.

Earlier in the year the 32-year-old had admitted that a move away from Craven Cottage could be a possibility this summer and confirmed that there was a deal in place for him to exit the club on a free transfer with Bundesliga outfit Werder Bremen waiting in the wings to make him an offer.

However, no deal has been put in place and the former Liverpool man could yet still find himself central to the club's plans as they kick off their Premier League campaign against Sunderland this weekend.

"The pre-season has been good in all aspects," he said.

"I am looking forward to fighting for league points again. We will see if that is at Fulham or somewhere else."

Riise also admitted that he still hopes to stay abroad for another few years before bringing the curtain down on his career in the Tippeligaen.

He added: "The plan is to stay another two or three years abroad.

"I have said in the past that I was not tempted to end my career in the Tippeligaen, but I have started to change my mind. A year or so in the Tippeligaen might be nice."


http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/08/14/john-arne-riise-drops-fulham-stay-hint/?

[WhiteJC]

 
Epiphany at Stadium of Light?

The curtain is about to rise on another Premier League season. What fate awaits Fulham? They are now under new ownership. Will the Khan Dynasty see the club rise to new heights or produce a plunge in fortunes undoing all the fine work of Mohammed Al-Fayed's sterling stewardship of London's oldest football club? Nobody knows. I have no more clues or insight than you, dear reader.

Business analysts, financial advisers and bankers galore construct empires crunching numbers in trying to beat the stock market and keep their figures in the black. In truth, their research guarantees nothing except the certainty all markets will one day run through their cycle to the next inevitable crash. The Premier League is no different to the stock market. It is designed to create winners and losers. That is how it functions.

This humble scribe says what he sees, to quote Catchphrase. I think the majority of sober-minded Fulham fans in this final week of the close season are feeling uneasy with the current state of the team. Trepidation in some may be mere frustration for others, impatience at lack of news, or a calm acceptance that things will come good and the sun will shine tomorrow.

-Fulham season preview

Assuming my conclusions from the Parma friendly broadly chimed with those at the Cottage last Saturday -- and I spoke with plenty on the Hammy End throughout the match -- I was surprised at some of the broadsides my blog attracted when re-published on other forums. There are of course those who spit their dummy on site of my byline, even were I to praise the turf at Craven Cottage, the finest playing surface in the capital. All writers have their small tribe of haters -- through naivete, prejudice or envy, there's no pleasing them -- and I don't even try.

The only surprising element from criticisms to my last post was how so many ended up agreeing with virtually all of the shortcomings we highlighted!

Let's be honest for once -- if you are a season-ticket holder, were you really happy with what you saw last season? Sixty goals conceded, nine home defeats, embarrassed by relegated Reading at home, tamely surrendering to winless QPR away? Repetitive implementation of a tactical system that fails?

We will not go over old ground. Before a ball has been kicked or any of us have the measure of our billionaire chairman, we shall endeavour to strike an upbeat note for the season opener.

The four signings made early in the summer all suggest real improvements to what went before. Little Fulham are parading a world-class shot stopper in goal in Dutch national keeper Maarten Stekelenburg. The man from Haarlem is 30; his predecessor Mark Schwarzer, also a top international, is 40.

Player of the season Sascha Riether at right-back would be coveted by most other Premier League clubs. He's been a model of reliability to date. Fernando Amorebieta has 250-plus appearances to his name over eight seasons in La Liga. He's already said he needs to adapt to the pace of the Premiership. If he can do that, and curb his indiscipline, he and Brede Hangeland should provide a formidable defensive shield. As to Derek Boateng, he bravely blocked a certain goal on Saturday, looks to have elements of both Dickson Etuhu and Papa Bouba Diop about him, is a Ghanaian international and undoubtedly gives Fulham more muscle in midfield.

There is no question Fulham will be adding to the roster before Sept. 2 and maybe even before Saturday's opener at Sunderland. I sense the club have targeted specific players, and like the rest of us are not blind to where we need to strengthen. The board have shown they can't be pushed around by agents and make it abundantly clear Fulham don't pay the highest wages. It's a pragmatic approach as long as it can be pulled off. Should Martin Jol snaffle another to match the calibre of Dimitar Berbatov, we'll all be singing his praises. Who's to say he won't?

In conclusion, I've spent time this week running the rule over other sides. Sunderland, for instance, are a completely unknown quantity with Paolo Di Canio having gone crazy in the market. I think WBA, Swansea and Norwich have spent well, Southampton look stronger, Stoke weaker. I feel the market will still produce some major shock waves, what with question marks hovering over the destinies of Gareth Bale, Wayne Rooney and Luis Suarez. A few megadeals will trigger a ripple down through other clubs.

Like all other preview pundits, survival looks a tough call for Hull and Crystal Palace to me. That leaves just the battle to avoid 18th place and be next season's Wigan. Backed by Khan's fortune, I can't see that being Fulham.

Survival then comes first. Some more entertaining football along the way would be welcome. As to the whole uncertainty surrounding the last few weeks -- here's a thought (I would not be so arrogant as to offer Mr. Khan advice):

A culture of obsessive secrecy involving club operations grew under Al-Fayed, and is practised to this day with some zeal behind the scenes. We do not expect open-handed transparency between board and fans. Tony Fernandes tried that and made himself a laughing stock. Considering how Mohammed looked to threaten the British Establishment, his own business background and loathing of investigative journalists, that culture surrounding Fulham FC operations is understandable.

Shahid Khan has already shown himself to be far more a man of the people and accessible to the media. A simple short press release in the last 30 days to state Fulham had a progressive policy in place to invest in new players and were actively engaged in scouring the market would not have gone amiss. The dashed hopes and hints, continually reading of players such as Wilfried Bony heading to other clubs instead of Fulham, has not helped the general mood.

Anyway, we turn over a new page, look forward to giving it our best shot up at Sunderland, and for the first time this season open our lungs and shout: COYW!!!

Check back here for our matchday preview before Saturday's opener plus details of my appearance on the Salut!Sunderland podcast Thursday 18.30 UK time.

Twitter: @fulhamphil



http://espnfc.com/blog/_/name/fulham/id/1194?&cc=5739

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Fulham Fail In Second QPR Raid As Midfielder Heads To La Liga

Former Real Madrid man set for La Liga return.

Fulham look to have been beaten to the signing of Queens Park Rangers midfielder Esteban Granero, with talkSPORT reporting that the Spaniard has chosen a move to Real Sociedad.

Granero only joined QPR last summer, but was one of several big names to disappoint for the London side as they suffered a humiliating relegation from the Premier League.


The likes of Southampton and Fiorentina had also been chasing the former Real Madrid man, and Fulham were optimistic of making him their second signing from Rangers, following their recent loan deal for Moroccan winger Adel Taarabt.

However, Real Sociedad have managed to lure the 26-year-old back to his native Spain, where he can also hope to have a crack at the Champions League this season with the side that finished fourth in La Liga last season.

Sociedad see Granero as a perfect replacement for star midfielder Asier Illarramendi, who was sold to Real Madrid for £35million earlier this summer.

It is thought that Granero will join on an initial loan deal, with the view to completing a permanent £5million transfer next summer, as QPR have done with a number of their big-name players in this transfer window.


http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/08/14/fulham-fail-in-second-qpr-raid-as-midfielder-heads-to-la-liga/?

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham set to snatch Spurs man at last minute?

Fulham could be about to hijack Scott Parker's move to Queen's Park Rangers, according to the London Evening Standard.

The newspaper previously reported that QPR boss Harry Redknapp had renewed his interest in signing up the Spurs midfielder, but in a shocking turn of events, it now looks like Parker could be headed to Craven Cottage.

Stiff competition

The Hoops realise just how hard it will be to land Parker when they realised they are facing stiff competition from Premier League clubs, with

The London Evening Standard reports that assistant manager Kevin Bond said: "If a Premier League club came in for him, that is the holy grail for players, so it will be difficult."

Miss Out

The newspaper writes that Fulham have only become interested in the England international because they look set to miss out on one of their other transfer  targets, QPR midfielder Esteban Granero.

The Spaniard looks set to move back to his home country.

Parker has made 18 appearances at international level, and won the Premier League with Chelsea in 2005.

The midfielder could be drawn to Loftus Road though, as he may enjoy linking up with his former Spurs manager Harry Redknapp.



http://www.touchlinetalk.com/fulham-set-to-snatch-spurs-man-at-last-minute/61970/?

[WhiteJC]

 
Brown out of Sunderland's opener against Fulham

WES BROWN has been ruled out of Sunderland's Premier League opener against Fulham on Saturday.

The 33-year-old's return to fitness has been one of the big plus points of the Black Cats' pre-season campaign after the former England international had endured more than 18 months without a competitive game.

But Brown (pictured) missed Sunderland's final pre-season friendly against Danish side Midjtylland last week, after suffering a minor problem with the knee that has been at the root of his injury woes.

Brown is only days away from a return to full training, but, with fellow centre-halves John O'Shea, Carlos Cuellar, Valentin Roberge and Modibo Diakite at his disposal, head coach Paolo Di Canio is wary of risking the former Manchester United man.

Di Canio told the Echo: "Wes has improved over the last few days.

"Another few days and he can start joining in with the rest of the team in training.

"But, for this game, we will not risk him because we have had that scenario in the past and it is silly.

"We have four central defenders to choose from and he (Brown) will be important during the season so we must not risk him."

Despite an injury setback on the eve of the campaign, Di Canio believes Brown can play his part this term.

The Italian says the defender proved his fitness during pre-season after Sunderland had offered to pay off the remaining two years of his contract.



http://www.newspostleader.co.uk/sport/local/brown-out-of-sunderland-s-opener-against-fulham-1-5953124