Friday Fulham Stuff (22/11/13)...

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Anderson will reject Fulham to fight for Manchester United place

Manchester United misfit Anderson insists he's willing to stay and fight for his place at Old Trafford and says he will not try to force a move in the January transfer window.

The Brazilian midfielder has barely featured under David Moyes this season and reports suggest Fulham are prepared to take the former Porto man on loan in the new year.

However, Anderson denies that he is unsettled and insists he's ready to wait for his chance at United.

'I have played only two games this season and I tried to do my very best for the team. But it is very hard when you only play a small part now and then,' the South American told M.E.N.

'But I am not unhappy. I am enjoying it and I know I will be ready whenever the manager picks me.

'I haven't spoken to David Moyes about my situation because I think I have a good situation at the moment. I love this club and I have been here for over six years.

'I am only 25 years old and I have about seven years' football left in me. So I have time on my side and I am happy at Old Trafford.

'I had a lot of injuries last season. I have come back now to help United. I came back in pre-season and felt good and I have been fit now all season.

'I just have to wait for the moment and when it comes for me then I have to take that opportunity.'


http://metro.co.uk/2013/11/21/anderson-will-reject-fulham-to-fight-for-manchester-united-place-4195389/?

[WhiteJC]

 
Fighting Hard

He hasn't played as much as he would have liked since arriving in SW6 – but Adel Taarabt remains determined to aid Fulham's cause.

The midfielder, on a season-long loan from Queens Park Rangers, started Fulham's first two games of the campaign but has since had to be content with cameo roles in league fixtures.

And the Morocco international is desperate for that to change as he bids to help the Whites move out of the bottom three places in the Barclays Premier League.

"It's been a little bit frustrating because I came here with a big ambition to do well," he told the official website. "I started off okay but then I picked up an injury that made it very difficult for me to get back in the team.

"Now I'm fighting hard to get back in the starting XI and this international break has been very good for me – we had a friendly game against Crystal Palace where I played 85 minutes and for fitness that was very good. Now I hope to get picked to play against Swansea City on Saturday.

"I need to produce in training and show the Manager that I'm ready to go and fight for him. That's what I try to do every day. I hope to be involved from the start on Saturday. If I don't start, I hope to come on and make an impact for the team."

The Whites have now suffered four successive defeats in all competitions but a win on Saturday against Swansea would take Fulham above the Welsh outfit and into mid-table.

"It's been disappointing, especially as we've lost the last few games, so we came in for criticism," said Taarabt. "But if you look at the table, if you win a couple of games you can suddenly be in the top eight. You have to win them, though, that is the thing.

"Every weekend in the Premier League you meet a tough team so we need to try and get points against every team. Okay, there are better sides than us but the fans want to see the team fight for every ball and every available point."

Taarabt was involved in a relegation battle with QPR last term – one that ultimately proved unsuccessful. That's not something he wants to experience again, but he believes his new side have the nous to move away from danger.

"It's different," he said. "Last season with QPR we didn't win a game before December. Here, we've already won three games. The squad here are more experienced and calmer about the situation. We just have to keep believing."

Fulham have been buoyed by the appointment of Head Coach Rene Meulensteen recently – and Taarabt has been impressed by the Dutchman's training sessions during the 49-year-old's short time at Motspur Park.

"I'd heard about him but I didn't know him as a person or a coach," stated Taarabt. "I've worked with him now for five or six days and he's unbelievable. The sessions he puts on are amazing. He understands the Premier League and how important it is to keep possession of the ball. The players are so happy with the sessions. They're hard work, though; everyone comes off the training pitch saying 'I'm dead, I need to sleep!'

"Everything is intensity, intensity, intensity and working on in-game situations. It's what we needed and I think he'll bring a lot to Fulham."

Swansea arrive in SW6 on Saturday with Taarabt hopeful the Whites can put a stop to City's possession-based game.

He said: "We need to prevent that – we want to have control of the ball and dominate games. So we need to press them. It's been too easy for other teams at times against us. We need to take responsibility now and control games, especially at home. If Swansea can do it, why can't we do it? That's what we're working on with Rene – to try and control games, to not give the ball away cheaply and defend as a team."

There are still tickets available for Saturday's clash with Swansea City, find out more here.



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2013/november/21/fighting-hard?

[WhiteJC]

 
Bolton Wanderers skipper Zat Knight seeking more happy away days

WANDERERS skipper Zat Knight wants the team to reward its loyal travelling fans by making it a hat-trick of away wins when the team return to Championship action at Watford on Saturday.

After wins at Birmingham and Bournemouth on their previous two away days, the Whites head to Hertfordshire looking for a third win at Vicarage road in four visits.

There is sure to be a sizeable contingent of the Whites army in attendance and the club captain says the squad are fully aware of how much it means to them.

Knight says the feeling of celebrating an away win with the fans, like they did at Bournemouth, is one of the best in football and hopes they can experience that again on Saturday.

And he says there are plenty of reasons to believe it can happen after their last two away displays.

In both victories, Knight came off the bench to help secure the points and at Bournemouth he was on the pitch when Jermaine Beckford sparked wild celebrations with a 90th-minute strike to wrap up victory.


He said: "It was an all-round pleasing afternoon at Bournemouth.

"It was a great feeling when that second goal went in and to celebrate in front of the travelling fans was amazing – it is one of the best feelings in football.

"Our fans were great and anyone who was there would have seen the huge outpouring of emotion.

"All of the boys know how much it means to them and hopefully we can send them home happy again on Saturday."

Wanderers followed up the Bournemouth result with a first victory on home soil against Millwall to make it back-to-back league wins for the first time in seven months.

Now they are looking for a third successive three pointer since that spell in early April and Knight says the mood is optimistic.

He added: "The lads are upbeat and in good spirits.

"We feel this little run we are currently on has been on the cards for the last few weeks now.

"Of course, there's still some frustration given the amount of draws we have had, but we've got to now make sure we're winning games.

"The mood is certainly better now.

"We know we haven't started the season well and you can't help but look at the league table.

"There's obviously a bit of a gap between ourselves and where we want to be.

"But we showed last season we are capable of going on a run and catapulting ourselves up the table.

"The key thing is that we don't leave it until the very last minute – we've got to be looking at going on a run now.

"There isn't much between any two teams in this division on any given day.

"Within five or six games, we believe we can get right up there.

"Of course, it is easy enough to say it but we've got to put that plan into action."



http://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/sport/wanderers/wanderersnews/10822891._/?

[WhiteJC]

 
Five key Fulham fixtures left in 2013

Martin Jol and his side currently sit in the Premier League relegation zone but their fixtures left this year offer the opportunity to move near safety.

The Cottagers have a new owner but the fans won't be hoping Shahid Khan's first season will be remembered for relegation to the Championship.

Former Tottenham boss Martin Jol seems to have the trust of the man upstairs but the arrival of former Manchester United coach Rene Meulensteen could put the Dutchman's job slightly under pressure.

The only way to relieve that is by picking up points in the remaining games this year and here are the key games left before 2014 arrives.

Swansea (H) 23rd November - Their next game is against the Swans who weren't in the best form before the international break, drawing 3-3 with Stoke and losing 1-0 to arch rivals Cardiff. A great chance to pick up three points in front of their own fans.

West Ham (A) 30th November - A London derby is always a tasty occasion and with both teams struggling in the bottom six, there's not much motivation needed for both managers and their players. Jol will fancy his chances of getting a positive result at Upton Park

LIVE Premier League match alerts to your phone - goals, red cards, half and full-time scores

Aston Villa (H) 4th December - Paul Lambert's side represent another good opportunity to pick up three points at Craven Cottage. One problem for Jol will be the missing Darren Bent, who won't be able to play under the terms of his loan deal from Villa.

Norwich (A) 26th December - It'll be a interesting Christmas period for Fulham and it starts with a trip to Carrow Road to take on another struggling side. Any points on the road are greatly appreciated and three against Chris Hughton's team would be huge for Jol.

Hull (A) 28th December - A trip to a newly-promoted team will be greeted with expectation from the travelling fans that they will come away with at least a point. If they can pick up a minimum of four points from the two Christmas games then they will be optimistic going into 2014.



http://hereisthecity.com/en-gb/2013/11/20/five-key-fulham-fixtures-left-in-2013/?

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham Q and A

We get the lowdown on Saturday's opponents Fulham from supporter Darrin Clarke

How has your season been so far?

Underwhelming to say the least. I had hoped we would kick on a bit this year, but it's been harder than ever. We've always been a model of consistency at home, but that's disappeared over the last few months and it's very hard to stay in this league if you're not winning games at home. Our squad is too old and lacking in genuine pace at the moment. We've got a lot of hard work ahead of us between now and May.

What do you make of the decision to appoint Rene Meulensteen to the backroom team. Do you think he has been brought into replace Martin Jol if things don't improve and are the fans still behind Jol?

I'm very happy we've brought Rene in. He's a world class coach and we desperately need someone to inject enthusiasm and passion into our players. We have some undoubtedly gifted players at Fulham and some really promising youngsters so hopefully he will help to get the best out of them on a Saturday.

Jol is under a huge amount of pressure from an ever increasing number of fans, myself included. Our record has been far from good for months and months now and I think he can count himself lucky to still be in a job as others might have sent him packing before now. That said, he's still our manager and as such will get my full support on match days. Hopefully Rene's appointment will help him and the team to pick up some much needed points very soon otherwise I think Jol will make way for  Meulensteen to take over the hot seat.

Mohammed Al-Fayed left the club during the summer to be replaced by Shahid Khan. Were you sorry to see Al-Fayed go and what do you make of Khan so far?

I was very sad to see MAF go but in truth, I also think it was the right time to be honest. His contribution to our football club can never be truly valued – it's no understatement to say that Fulham Football Club might not be here today without him. He saved us from the depths of the lower leagues, took us on an unbelievable journey to regular top flight football and even a European Cup Final. The man is a hero to all of us!

Khan has big shoes to fill but he certainly seems to have the credentials to do so. He seems very level headed and he has money to inject in both the team and the stadium. Time will tell but if he's half the chairman that MAF was, I will be happy enough!

Who have been your star performers and who has flattered to deceive?

Kasami has been the highlight for me and that goal at Selhurst Park surely has to be goal of the season?! Parker has also been a great signing and for my money should be our captain.

Without any doubt, the biggest disappointment has been one Dimitar Berbatov. One of the greatest talents to ever pull on the white shirt, but also one of the most frustrating. He can win games on his own, but not this season. He doesn't seem to have the fight needed for where we are in the league and certainly doesn't warrant the captain's armband that he's currently in possession of.

The transfer window is rapidly approaching, is there any money to spend and where do you need to strengthen?

There should be money to spend and we can reinforce all over the park to be honest!  It'll be interesting to see how much money Khan gives Jol and where he will invest it, but we could do with at least 3 or 4 players in my opinion.

What do you make of Swansea and who which of our players will cause the biggest threat at Craven Cottage on Saturday?

I've always liked Swansea City and Bony is a player I really rate. I can't believe he's been on the bench so much this year and I hope he stays there on Saturday!

Predict where both teams will finish and the score of the upcoming game?

I think we will win 1-0 because we simply need the points more than you at the moment. I will say Swansea will finish slightly higher than us come May – let's say you in 12th and Fulham in 14th. Here's hoping we get to play you again in this league next season!



http://sosfanzine.com/fulham-q-and-a-away20134/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=fulham-q-and-a-away20134

[WhiteJC]

 
Teenage hitman to be unleashed

Fulham could hand a first-team debut to highly-rated teenage striker Moussa Dembele at home to Swansea City on Saturday.

The 17-year-old forward is under consideration for a place in Martin Jol's squad after a string of impressive performances for Fulham's Under-18 and Under-21 sides. Dembele scored for the Under-21s in a behind-closed-doors friendly against a full-strength MK Dons side on Tuesday to illustrate his readiness for first-team action. He also hit the bar in a 2-1 win for Fulham before being substituted just after the hour mark. The French youngster has scored 15 times this season and, after capping off a fine campaign last term with a hat-trick in the Barclays U18 Premier League final, Cottagers academy director Huw Jennings has high hopes for the player. "Moussa is a bit of a throwback to a striker of yesteryear, because he is a classic number nine who can hold the ball up with his back to goal and also run in behind with pace and power," he said.



Read more at: http://www.clubcall.com/fulham/teenage-hitman-to-be-unleashed-1666619.html?

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham in four-way battle for Rio Ave starlet

Fulham are locked in a four-way battle with AC Milan, Benfica and Real Betis to snap up Rio Ave starlet Nelson Monte, according to sources in Portugal.

Martin Jol despatched scouts to keep an eye on the 18-year-old during Portugal Under-19s' 3-0 win against their Luxembourg counterparts last week.

But the Cottagers are not the only side who are in the hunt for Monte, as Benfica, Betis and Milan are also keen to prise him away from his current club.


Read more at http://talksport.com/football/fulham-four-way-battle-rio-ave-starlet-13112168945#FXKPTHqLuEbJJblk.99

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Richardson makes fitness vow after putting injury woes behind him

Fulham defender hopes misery is over as he bids to nail down left-back berth


On the up: Kieran Richardson is back to fitness
Kieran Richardson insists he's finally over his injury nightmare and is ready to make Fulham's left-back spot his own.

The former Manchester United man has been restricted to just 20 Premier League starts since signing from Sunderland last year due to a niggling hamstring problem.

Richardson limped out of the win at Sunderland on the opening day of the campaign, but is back to fitness and has started the past eight games.

And the 29-year-old is keeping his fingers crossed that his injury worries are behind him as he looks to help Martin Jol's strugglers up the table.

He said: "I blew out my hamstring on the first game of the season, which was a bit of a downer, then I have been having a few little niggles on my calf.

"You have got to get on with it and I just want to play every game. Hopefully we can kick on and I can play the rest of the season. I am taking it each game at a time."

Richardson has got the nod over John Arne Riise, Fernando Amorebieta and Matthew Briggs for Fulham's left-back berth.

And the ex-West Ham trainee says the competition for places spurs him on.

He added: "The gaffer wants me to play there and tells me to get forward as much as possible. Being a defender, you have got to defend first.

"It is good that everyone is fighting for positions, it keeps everyone on their toes."


http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/richardson-makes-fitness-vow-after-6328495?

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Bryan Ruiz is being fixed

From his own website

Solano/INTENSA The break that the Premier League is in to give way to the date of matches among national squads by FIFA has allowed Bryan Ruiz undergo an important treatment in his back to diminish the discomfort that he has endured since long ago.

Bryan, who was not called for his national team next friendly match in order to get such therapy, commented that this week he was in Germany for one day receiving such treatment from a medical specialist who months before treated some muscular problems that affected him.

"It's been a  positive week. I had been playing for some time with back problems, and so it was necessary to be treated the right way. I have gone to Germany to get some treatment that has been helping me and I've felt better. I hope to finish such treatment within a week", he explained in his webpage.

Bryan stated that the medical specialist found as a possible reason for his back pain the poor posture he keeps during the extensive trips he has made for a long time between Europe and Costa Rica.

"It is a problem derived from so many trips from Costa Rica to Europe. In the past years it has affected my back, and I have also had certain problems in my back because of my height, so I need to follow some specific work", he said.

Bryan also had an opinion over the arrival of the Dutch coach Rene Meulenstee to his team's bench, who worked between 2007 and 2013 with Alex Ferguson in Manchester United, and who now will support Martin Jol in Fulham.

"His arrival is to strenghten the team, to help. The beginning of the season has not been good, and he's a person who has experience and knowledge in British football. It is important that he helps coach Martin Jol", commented Ruiz.
Interesting as there was a long (by twitter standards) rant on this by international coach Raymond Verheijen, who tends to speak a lot of sense.

How will the managers of the European top clubs look back at this week's international games. What an unbelievable injury tsunami!
The question is whether there is room for improvement at national teams to reduce injuries. For example, with respect to recovery & training
At club level, on the 1st day after game, players do a recovery session & on 2nd day after game there is no training to maximize recovery.
During an international week, after their club game on Sun, players have to report to national teams on Mon. They often do recovery on Mon.
However, on Tue (2nd day after game) national team coaches often plan a full session as they have little time to prepare for the Friday game
Consequently, players will not fully recover from the club game before playing with national team on Friday. So they will accumulate fatigue
After national team game on Friday, players have to recover again. Normally, this means recovery session on Saturday & no training on Sunday
However, national team managers often plan a full session again on Sun (2nd dag after game) as national teams have to play a 2nd game on Tue
As a result, again players do not fully recover after game. Due to this unfinished business, now they really do accumulate a lot of fatigue.
Accumulated fatigue has a negative effect on nervous system. So players' motoric coordination goes down & injury risk increases dramatically
Obviously this is not only reason for this week's injury tsunami. But there is clearly a lot of room for improvement at national team level.
Optimizing recovery & training is the least national teams could do to reduce injury risk of the players they borrow from European top clubs
With Gary Speed's Wales national team we did not train on Tuesday & Sunday to optimize recovery & reduce injuries. Practise what you preach!
Why do Barca & Real accept all the friendlies of Spain in South America & Africa? What is consequence for Spanish players at end of season?
Luis Suarez is playing tonight with Uruguay in Montevideo. On Saturday he has to play with Liverpool against Everton. Irresponsible planning
If this is keeping him out it'd be a huge shame — Ruiz would really benefit from the new coaching schemes.  Not him personally, but by the fact that our attack might be a bit more coherent.



http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2013/11/21/bryan-ruiz-is-being-fixed/?

[WhiteJC]

 
'Rene Meulensteen is amazing', says Fulham's Adel Taarabt

Adel Taarabt did not know much about Rene Meulensteen before his appointment at Fulham, but is loving life under the "unbelievable" new head coach.

After a frustrating start to the season in west London, the powers that be last week significantly shook-up the managerial structure at Craven Cottage.

With manager Martin Jol's position coming under increasing scrutiny, Meulensteen was brought in to work alongside his fellow Dutchman as head coach.

It is Meulensteen's second job since leaving Manchester United's coaching team following Sir Alex Ferguson's departure after a brief spell at Anzhi Makhachkala, and he has quickly made an impact on the players at Motspur Park.

"I'd heard about him but I didn't know him as a person or a coach," attacking midfielder Taarabt told the club's official website. "I've worked with him now for five or six days and he's unbelievable. The sessions he puts on are amazing.

"He understands the Premier League and how important it is to keep possession of the ball.

"The players are so happy with the sessions. They're hard work, though; everyone comes off the training pitch saying 'I'm dead, I need to sleep!'

"Everything is intensity, intensity, intensity and working on in-game situations. It's what we needed and I think he'll bring a lot to Fulham."



http://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/rene-meulensteen-is-amazing-says-fulhams-adel-taarabt-8955141.html

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Winning at Fulham is crucial, says Laudrup

Swansea City manager Michael Laudrup has labelled the trip to Fulham on Saturday as crucial as his side look to improve on a slow start.

Swansea are flying in the UEFA Europa League - they are on course to reach the knockout stages with two group matches to play - but have struggled this term in the English top flight.

The Welsh outfit have won just three Premier League matches and lie 13th, two points above the relegation zone.

Ahead of a period that seems them play 12 matches in just over six weeks, Laudrup is fully aware of the importance of the clash with Fulham.

"I go to this game as the first game of 12 games in 43 days – nine games in the league, two games in Europe and one FA Cup game," Laudrup said.

"I know all managers - myself included - say that all the games are important but, for me, this is one of the most important games of our next 12."

Swansea's last Premier League match saw them come from 2-0 down to take the lead, only for a last-gasp Charlie Adam penalty to give Stoke City a 3-3 draw at the Liberty Stadium.

Adam's goal represented a third injury-time equaliser against Swansea in five matches and, as a result, Laudrup's men have not tasted victory in over a month.

Laudrup is staying positive, though, and wants to see more of the football his side played in the second half against Stoke, when they scored three goals.

"We have to take the fantastic second-half performance against Stoke into this game. It is so important that we bring that performance but, most importantly, get the result," he said.

"We were so frustrated after the Stoke game because the players deserved to win, even more so than they did against Kuban Krasnodar (in the Europa League).

"But what doesn't kill you makes you stronger, and I am definitely sure we will come back stronger."

Michel Vorm will return from suspension for Saturday's match but the likes of Michu (knee and ankle), Pablo Hernandez (thigh) and Garry Monk (knee) are all still sidelined.

However, Laudrup revealed he had received positive news about Michu's recovery and that both he and Hernandez would play a part in the coming weeks.

"We knew that Michu would need a little more time - maybe, if we're lucky, less than first expected. The same goes for Pablo," said the Dane.

"But because we have so many games, we have to be careful not to pull one or two in too early.

"We need all of the players, especially for the coming six weeks, where everybody will play."



http://uk.soccerway.com/news/2013/November/21/winning-at-fulham-is-crucial-says-laudrup/?

[WhiteJC]

 
Messi shoots down Berbatov to Barcelona rumours

The Argentine, who recently won a record third Golden Shoe for most goals in Europe last season, believes there is no chance the Fulham striker will move to Camp Nou

Barcelona striker Lionel Messi says it would be "impossible" for Fulham striker Dimitar Berbatov to join the club.

Recent reports have speculated that the 32-year-old Bulgaria international could be on his way to Camp Nou as coach Gerardo Martino looks for cover following Messi's hamstring tear that is expected to keep him out for the next eight weeks.

However, the Argentine believes that although the attacker is a good player and has experience the move is unlikely to materialise.

"I haven't heard the rumour that Berbatov is linked to Barcelona. In fact he is a good player, he has experience in a big team," Messi told TV7.

"It's not my business to interfere with the club's transfer decisions but I think it's impossible for Dimitar to join Barcelona."

Berbatov, who is out of contract at the end of the season, would be a cheaper alternative to other names that have been linked with a switch to the Catalan club, such as Oscar Cardozo and Sergio Aguero.

The Fulham striker has one goal in 10 Premier League appearances this season.

Martino has said he has faith in current forwards Alexis Sanchez and Neymar, but he would like additional cover.



http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2892/transfer-zone/2013/11/21/4423401/-?

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Anderson: 'I will leave Manchester United to save career'

ANDERSON admits he will have to quit Manchester United for the sake of his career.

The Brazilian midfielder, 25, has started only two games under David Moyes this season amid rumours that United are ready to cash in on him before his contract runs out in the summer of 2015.

Six years on from his £17million move from Porto, Anderson has yet to nail down a regular place and has been linked with a move in the January transfer window to Fulham, where former United coach Rene Meulensteen has been appointed as Martin Jol's assistant.

He said: "Every player wants to play every game. I am the same . I am only 25 years old, but I cannot stay one more year and not play. I need to play. But you cannot demand to play, you have to be patient and when you get your chance you have to do well.

"The club have always been nice to me and I am happy here, but if I have to go eventually then I have to go. But I will do my best for United."

Anderson says injuries have not helped his cause at Old Trafford. "I feel fit now and I just need the games," he added. "If I had a good run of games then I could show I am the player I was in my first two seasons, the real Anderson."

He may well get that chance in the next few weeks. Michael Carrick and Phil Jones are both injured and Marouane Fellaini is suspended for next week's Champions League game against Bayer Leverkusen.



http://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/444450/Anderson-I-will-leave-Manchester-United-to-save-career

[WhiteJC]

 
Meulensteen may remedy Fulham's malaise

If you've ever been to Fulham's Craven Cottage, you might have witnessed the wind that rumbles through the ground. It's a meteorological consequence of being in such close proximity to the River Thames. However, following the arrival of Rene Meulensteen at the club, it is now hoped those winds are also symbolic of the change in fortune the club so desperately require.

Fulham have struggled this season and currently sit in 18th place. Now in his third season, the likable Martin Jol has seen his managerial acumen questioned as he has struggled to inspire weary patrons of the Cottage. In a bid to stem the flow of points escaping the club's grasp, they have brought in a man Robin van Persie described as, "truly one of the best in the world."

With two spells at Manchester United on his resume, Meulensteen is not short of admirers. As Arsene Wenger confirmed, the 49-year-old helped convince Van Persie to take up a residency at Old Trafford.

"He is truly one of the best coaches in the world," Van Persie said of Meulensteen. "I have had a lot of good trainers, but it is the way he prepares our team for games. Every match is different, so every training session in the buildup to games is unique."

Elevating himself through the ranks of Manchester United, beginning at youth level, his time at the club crescendoed as assistant to Sir Alex Ferguson. As he became more involved with the senior side he also provided personal sessions for the likes of Rudd van Nistlerooy and Ryan Giggs. With Ferguson keen to delegate the duty of training, Meulensteen survived at a club that has neither the space nor desire to carry passengers.

Leaving not long after Ferguson chose too, Meulensteen ventured to Eastern Europe (deciding not to take up David Moyes' offer of a role in the youth setup). Moving to the affluent Anzhi Makhachkala, he served as second-in-command to Gus Hiddink. Few could have predicted the subsequent implosion at Anzhi -- least of all the newly arrived Meulensteen -- as players including Samuel Eto'o, Lassana Diarra and Christopher Samba all were sold off.

Thrust forward into the manager's chair he would last just days -- 16 to be precise. Linked with the manager's job at Fulham, it was around the time of his appointment at Anzhi that his last spell in management thrust itself into the spotlight.

Revealed via the autobiography of Per Nielsen -- a Brondby legend -- it provided a clutch of anecdotes pertaining to Meulensteen's brief yet eventful time managing the club in 2006.

Had Nielsen chosen to accept a lucrative offer from Rosenborg at the time, the stories might never have entered the public domain (the defender revealing it was his new coach that convinced him to stay). Signing two former United players (Mark Howard and Adam Eckersley) as his first act, his eccentricity bore itself early as he began to change every facet of operations.

That included the hallway leading to the team's dressing room. Draped in the yellow of Brondby, Meulensteen demanded green, claiming it relaxed the players returning to the dressing room after an exciting first half.

As if trying too hard to be innovative, and without the senior figures of United to rein him in, Meulensteen continued. During training sessions he would watch for players juggling a ball before jumping in front of them and shouting "Boo!" This was an attempt to prepare them for the grand stadiums in which they would play.

What Meulensteen had not factored in was that his players had sampled the 40,000-seater stadium of FC Copenhagen and were somewhat accustomed to the atmosphere such situations provided. "I think he was surprised how many spectators went to Danish league games," Nielsen wrote in his book. "And that he had players in the squad who were used to playing big games with their national teams and in the European club tournaments."

It did not end there. Arguably most perplexing of Nielsen's stories occurred during a UEFA Cup tie against Frankfurt. Gathering his squad in front of the blackboard he asked them what kind of animal they wanted to be on the field? As captain, Nielsen felt obligated to answer first. Opting to be a snake, it did not garner the hoped response.

"No no, Per, god damn it. That won't work. Snakes are slow animals, we cannot have snakes in our defense, the Germans will outrun us then," Meulensteen replied.

"Then I'm a tiger. Is that okay?" Nielsen asked, in hope rather than expectation.

"That's perfect!," Meulensteen enthused. "Tigers are brave, fast and strong. That is exactly what we need from a captain."

He finally departed the club in January of his first season. An unmitigated disaster is how many still describe it, with Meulensteen denoting no more than a sentence to it on his personal website.

Now arriving at Fulham after a destabilising period at Anzhi, the Cottagers' issues pertain solely to the playing surface. With the club's hopes revolving around the mercurial Dimitar Berbatov, Meulensteen is adamant he can reinvigorate the Bulgarian after working with him at United.

And already the signs seem positive, with Adel Taarabt telling the club's official website, "I'd heard about him but I didn't know him as a person or a coach. I've worked with him now for five or six days and he's unbelievable. The sessions he puts on are amazing. He understands the Premier League and how important it is to keep possession of the ball. Everything is intensity, intensity, intensity and working on in-game situations. It's what we needed and I think he'll bring a lot to Fulham."

With speculation at the time rife that Meulensteen was set to succeed Jol, it seems unlikely Fulham fans would be too disappointed with such an outcome. A likable person, Jol has seen opinion turn of late. Categorically ruling out the return of Clint Dempsey, he urged fans to lower their expectations for the club -- the recent 4-0 drubbing at Liverpool proving a significant low point.

However, now that Jol is able to delegate training to a pedigreed coach, there is no reason for Fulham to continue floundering. Theoretically two compatriots should steer the club away from troubled waters, so long as Meulensteen does not take umbrage with club mascot Billy the Badger.



http://espnfc.com/blog/_/name/espnfcunited/id/10649?&cc=5739

[Stefano Okaka Chuka]

Messi shoots down Berbatov to Barcelona rumours

The Argentine, who recently won a record third Golden Shoe for most goals in Europe last season, believes there is no chance the Fulham striker will move to Camp Nou

Barcelona striker Lionel Messi says it would be "impossible" for Fulham striker Dimitar Berbatov to join the club.

Recent reports have speculated that the 32-year-old Bulgaria international could be on his way to Camp Nou as coach Gerardo Martino looks for cover following Messi's hamstring tear that is expected to keep him out for the next eight weeks.

However, the Argentine believes that although the attacker is a good player and has experience the move is unlikely to materialise.

"I haven't heard the rumour that Berbatov is linked to Barcelona. In fact he is a good player, he has experience in a big team," Messi told TV7.

"It's not my business to interfere with the club's transfer decisions but I think it's impossible for Dimitar to join Barcelona."

Berbatov, who is out of contract at the end of the season, would be a cheaper alternative to other names that have been linked with a switch to the Catalan club, such as Oscar Cardozo and Sergio Aguero.

The Fulham striker has one goal in 10 Premier League appearances this season.

Martino has said he has faith in current forwards Alexis Sanchez and Neymar, but he would like additional cover.



http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2892/transfer-zone/2013/11/21/4423401/-?

He really is an arrogant p***k. Messi that is.

[WhiteJC]

 
Three Key Battles: Fulham vs Swansea

Fulham will be looking for their first win since that Monday night victory at Selhurst Park a few weeks ago, having lost their last four games. As a result, the pressure on manager Martin Jol has been rising.

Swansea City aren't in the best form themselves, without a win in their last five in all competitions. However, having shown glimpses of their impressive play last term already this term, they will be confident of snatching an away win and getting up towards the top half of the table

Having dipped into the relegation zone before the international break, a win is the only option for Jol, who has a relatively full squad available to him.

I think the visitors are unlikely not to score, having seen the frailty of Fulham's defence so far this season; a low scoring draw being the most likely outcome.

Jack Simpkin's Prediction: Fulham 1-1 Swansea


http://www.touchlinetalk.com/three-key-battles-fulham-vs-swansea/75097/?

[WhiteJC]

 
Testing Times

After a stop-start 2012/13 campaign, Kieran Richardson has established himself as Martin Jol's first choice left-back. And in this, his 12th consecutive Premier League season, the former England international is desperate to help Fulham return to winning ways.

Without a win in their last four outings, the 29-year-old describes the recent period as a 'test of character', but believes the Whites have the experience and talent to pull through.

"We're in the bottom three at the moment, and we know that it hasn't been good enough," Richardson told Saturday's official matchday programme. "But, as a group, we share the trust that we will turn things around. It's still relatively early - no one in the changing room is panicking.

"There's only four points separating us and 10th-placed West Bromwich Albion, so we know that a couple of victories could really change the shape of the season for us. We have a lot of experience in the squad, players that have been in similar positions before and know what it takes. We also have some very, very talented individuals, and I'm confident that talent will shine through. There's been 11 league games played, so there's plenty of football ahead of us and points to be won."

To read the full interview with Richardson, in which he discusses the arrival of Rene Meulensteen, playing at left-back, and how one of his sketches ended up on Sir Alex Ferguson's office wall, pick up a copy of the official matchday programme on Saturday.

Other key content in the only matchday magazine that matters - which is available to download digitally from 9am on Saturday - include:

Martin Jol's regular programme notes
Derek Boateng takes the Fulham 50 challenge
Ex-Fulham defender Duncan Jupp recalls a famous thumping of Swansea City
Former Swansea striker Lee Trundle assesses the weekend's game
There's a chunk of programme nostalgia in Rewind
Young Welshman Jordan Evans is profiled in Through The Ranks
And Gordon Davies reveals why his moustache is making a return in Yesterday's Hero
Priced £3.50, the 84-page publication is available from various sellers on Stevenage Road from two hours before kick-off. Fans can also order copies directly from www.programmemaster.com

The programme is also available as an app with added video content from 9am on Saturday via Apple's Newsstand or Pocketmags. You can subscribe for the whole season for the digital edition or buy a single issue for £1.99.

A limited amount of Monday night's Italy v Nigeria commemorative 76-page programme are available for just £1.50 as part of a double deal with Saturday's matchday programme for £5. The programme feature Fulham legend Les Strong's exclusive interview with Roy Hodgson, Teddy Maybank's Serie A XI and much more exclusive content of interest to all Fulham supporters.


http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2013/november/22/testing-times?

[WhiteJC]

 
LAWRO'S PREDICTION

Fulham v Swansea

Rene Meulensteen has come in as Fulham's head coach under Martin Jol and everyone is putting two and two together and making five, thinking that if they lose their next couple of games then Jol will be out and Rene will become the manager.

I am not so sure that is the case. I don't think Meulensteen has taken the coaching job thinking that he will be manager soon.

And I think he will do a good job under Jol too, with a different voice and a change of approach to lift the players a little bit.

Basically, Fulham's problem is that they are conceding loads of goals. What they really need are a few games where they are difficult to beat and hard to play against. If they pick up a few points, that would give them a platform to build on.

They might get something at Craven Cottage to help them on their way. Swansea have been doing well in Europe but they have not got going in the Premier League yet - they are simply not playing as well as they did last season, despite having bought some better players.

Lawro's prediction: 2-1
The National's prediction: 0-1


http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/25012699

[WhiteJC]

 
Etheridge Joins Crewe

Fulham goalkeeper Neil Etheridge has joined Crewe Alexandra on loan until 1st January 2014, subject to FA, Premier League and Football League clearance.

The 23-year-old shot-stopper could make his debut for the struggling Sky Bet League One Railwaymen when they host Port Vale on Saturday (3pm). Crewe are currently 22nd in the table but just a point away from safety.

The loan move represents a fourth temporary stint away from SW6 for Etheridge following spells at Leatherhead, Charlton Athletic and Bristol Rovers.

Fulham Manager Martin Jol recently admitted he was keen to send the Philippines international out on loan in order to gain some valuable first-team experience.

"Neil is one of the keepers who I think should go on loan and get 50-75 games under his belt because he's talented," Jol said. "Etheridge hasn't got the experience yet. He's played one match for us. He has never played in the Premier League and I think goalkeepers are living by experience."



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2013/november/22/etheridge-joins-crewe?

[WhiteJC]

 
U18s' Hammers Trip

Fulham Under-18s meet West Ham United on Saturday as the London rivals face off at the Hammers' Little Heath training ground in Romford (11am).

It pits two of the league's in-form teams against each other, with West Ham currently enjoying an eight-game unbeaten run; a stretch which boasts six wins, including a 5-0 triumph over Liverpool.

Despite their prolific recent run, the Irons only occupy fifth spot in the table due to a slow start to the campaign when they picked up just one win from their opening five games.

Managed by former West Ham defender Steve Potts, things have turned around in the last couple months and their most recent outing yielded an impressive 3-1 win away to Reading – a result that saw them leapfrog the Royals in the standings. The returning Djair Parfitt-Williams was the match-winner as he grabbed a hat-trick, having missed the last four games through injury.

The Whites will go into the fixture with nothing to fear, though, as they're enjoying a fine run themselves. Steve Wigley's boys have hit 16 goals in their previous four matches, picking up 10 points in the process to cement their spot at the top of the South Group.

Victory on Saturday could see Fulham move six points clear of second-place Tottenham Hotspur – who entertain local rivals Arsenal – although a win for West Ham would put them just four points behind the Whites in the standings. 




http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2013/november/22/u18s-hammers-trip?