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Friday Fulham Stuff (24/01/14)...

Started by WhiteJC, January 23, 2014, 06:13:22 PM

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WhiteJC

 
Sheffield United: Peschisolido says Clough's charges can claim another top-flight scalp

Paul Peschisolido is convinced Sheffield United can spring an FA Cup upset when they entertain another of his former clubs this weekend, writes James Shield.

Fulham, 47 places higher on the footballing pyramid, visit South Yorkshire for Sunday's fourth round tie confident of preventing Nigel Clough's side from reaching the next stage of the competition for the first time since 2009.

But Peschisolido, a veteran of the United team which blazed a trail into the semi-finals 11 years ago, believes that harnessing the spirit of that remarkable run can help them bridge the sporting divide.

"There's a huge gap between the top-flight teams and everyone else," he told The Star. "So Fulham will be the favourites to go through and understandably so.

"That, however, doesn't necessarily mean that they will as we demonstrated way back then. The secret of our success, the thing that made us such a handful, was the spirit we had in the dressing room. We felt like we were invincible and, no matter who we were paired against, that we'd beat them.

"Having that type of mood, that type of atmosphere behind the scenes, is no guarantee of success. But you know what? If you've got it then it does make a surprise result much more likely. It can take you a hell of a long way. Self-belief is absolutely key."

United, who dashed Aston Villa's hopes of progressing in the previous round, enter their encounter with Rene Meulensteen's team full of confidence after impressing against League One rivals Bradford City last weekend.

That result, coupled with their recent exploits in the Midlands, means they are unlikely to enjoy the element of surprise against opponents embroiled in their own battle to avoid the drop.

However Peschisolido, who made 102 appearances during two spells with United, identified several factors which could work to their advantage.

"Fulham, like all the Premier League clubs, have so much information at their disposal now that they'll know everything about United's squad. They'll have scouted them, noted their strengths and weaknesses on paper before looking at them in even more detail on the training pitch this week.

"But the one thing that you can never take into account is how much players from a lower division raise their game in situations like this. Honestly, the United lads, providing their switched on properly, will find an extra 10 or 20 per cent because it's a massive opportunity for them. The same, with respect, isn't the same for Fulham as they're expected to win the game."

Peschisolido, now aged 42, commanded a £1.1m fee when he moved to Craven Cottage from West Bromwich Albion in 1997.

Having scored 30 goals during three seasons in the capital, the Canadian was initially signed by United's then manager Neil Warnock on loan before completing a permanent transfer to Bramall Lane six months later.

The highlight of his time in South Yorkshire, a dramatic cameo during 2003's Championship play-off semi-final against Nottingham Forest apart, was helping United dispatch Cheltenham, Ipswich, Walsall and Leeds en route to their meeting with Arsenal at Old Trafford earlier that year where, having seen referee Graham Poll's poor positional sense set in the motion the chain of events which led to Freddie Ljunberg scoring the game's only goal, he forced a save from David Seaman the goalkeeper subsequently described as the best of his career.

Peschisolido, who later represented Derby County before taking charge of Clough's former club Burton Albion, said: "They're very different people but there's also a lot of similarities between Neil and Nigel. They're both managers who place a big emphasis on old school values like hard work and respect for your team mates. There's nothing wrong with that.

"That's why, just like they did for Neil, I know players enjoy being in Nigel's teams. Because he breeds a good spirit behind the scenes and he doesn't tolerate things which jeopardise that."

Despite their miserable away record - Fulham have tasted success just three times on the road this term - Meulensteen has an abundance of talent at his disposal including Dimitar Berbatov and Darren Bent.

Nevertheless, Peschisolido warned United they can not afford to show their opponents too much respect.

"The game in the Premier League is much, much quicker," he said. "But, at the same time, you tend to get a lot more room to operate up there.

"For instance, if you're a striker, a centre-half will stand off you a little bit because he expects you to have a good first touch. He won't get too tight.

"When you are the team from lower down, you've got to be aware of what you're up against but also find a way of taking your opponents out of their comfort zone. Making sure they find themselves in the type of match they're not used to playing."

With Sunday's tie being broadcast live on television, a small army of reporters descended upon the Redtooth Academy when United opened their doors to the media yesterday.

"You've got to embrace all the hype that goes with games like this," Peschisolido said. "Soak it up and take it on board but, at the same time, not let is cause a distraction. Just enjoy it."


http://www.sheffieldtelegraph.co.uk/sport/sheffield-united/sheffield-united-peschisolido-says-clough-s-charges-can-claim-another-top-flight-scalp-1-6392652

WhiteJC

 
Fulham look at AC Milan's forgotten defender



Fulham are being linked with a move for AC Milan defender Cristian Zaccardo, who has become surplus to requirements at San Siro.

Cristian Zaccardo was a member of Italy's 2006 World Cup winning squad, but he is currently bench warming for AC Milan and may relish a move to Fulham.

The 32-year-old signed for Milan this time last year from Parma but he has been little more than defensive cover and must be aware of the clock ticking on his career.

There are no signs that new boss Clarence Seedorf will give Zaccardo any more first team opportunities than predecessor Massimiliano Allegri did.

And the centre-back has played abroad before, plying his trade for German side VFL Wolfsburg in the 2008-09 campaign.

Sportmediaset insists that Fulham were eyeing Nicolas Burdisso, who has now agreed a move from Roma to Genoa, and that the West London outfit see Zaccardo as Plan B.

While Zaccardo's deal at Milan expires at the end of June 2016, the Rossoneri aren't likely to place an exorbitant price tag on him.

Zaccardo, who has represented Italy 17 times, including three appearances and one own goal during Italy's World Cup triumph in 2006, has also been linked to West Bromwich Albion.

However, the Baggies are said to be less able to move in the market at the moment and Fulham are likely to bid unopposed.

Is forgotten World Cup winner on his way to Fulham?

image: © olaszmelo



http://hereisthecity.com/en-gb/2014/01/24/fulham-look-at-ac-milans-forgotten-defender/?

WhiteJC

 
Fulham target Morrison reportedly told he will not be leaving

West Ham have told Ravel Morrison he will definitely not be sold during the current transfer window, the Daily Mirror say.

Fulham recently had a bid for the 20-year-old midfielder rejected and are planning to make another offer.

But it is claimed that the Hammers have decided they will reject all bids for the player even if it means his market value is less this summer, when he will have only a year left on his contract.

It is claimed West Ham have opted not to cash in and instead hope that Morrison can help keep them in the Premier League this season.


http://www.westlondonsport.com/features-comment/whites-face-missing-out-on-west-ham-man-report-wls-football


WhiteJC

 
Burn Wary Of Blades

Dan Burn knows all about Sheffield United - and the youngster is under no illusions to the threat that will be posed by the Blades in Sunday's FA Cup with Budweiser clash.

Burn faced the Blades three times during his loan spell at Yeovil Town last term – once in League One and twice in the end-of-season Play-Offs. And he's expecting a tough test of Fulham's credentials at Bramall Lane this weekend.

"I got to know them quite well," he told the official website. "They'll be pressing hard and they won't let us have any time on the ball. Compared to the games against Norwich City in the Third Round, it will be very different to that.

"They'll probably go quite direct, using the channels, and they've got two big centre-halves. Last season I think they conceded the least goals out of all four leagues and I don't think the back four has changed much. They've got some very good players and squad-wise, I'd say they've got one of the best in League One."

With the game selected for live television coverage, the broadcasters are clearly hoping for another giant-killing after United knocked out Aston Villa in the Third Round.

"Bramall Lane's a great stadium, probably my favourite to play at last season," continued Burn. "The fans sing their greasy chip butty song beforehand and create a good atmosphere. It will be a really big test and one I don't think we can take lightly.

"They've shown they can beat Barclays Premier League opposition in Aston Villa so they've got nothing to fear. They want to progress as far as they can in this cup so we've got to make sure we're on our guard and get a result."

Burn has started Fulham's last two games, the Third Round Replay win over Norwich and the unlucky defeat to Arsenal last weekend.

The centre-back is encouraged by the Whites' recent form and – if selected – hopes to help René Meulensteen's men enjoy a favourable day out in Yorkshire.

"We've got to make a quick start and not let them get into the game," he said. "If we can get an early goal, that would settle us down.

"I'm hoping to feature - I want to play in every game I can. So if the gaffer picks me on Sunday I'll be up for it, as I always am."


http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2014/january/24/burn-wary-of-blades?

WhiteJC

 
'We have put a bid in' – Fulham boss hopes to sign Swansea man

Fulham manager Rene Meulensteen has revealed for the first time that he is interested in signing defender Neil Taylor from Swansea.

Meulensteen is after a left-back to challenge Kieran Richardson and John Arne Riise at Craven Cottage.

The Fulham manager reckons the top clubs in the league would already have signed Taylor had he not suffered an ankle injury that kept him out for eight months last season.

"We have put a bid in. It's on the table. It's simmering," Meulensteen said.

Despite being the subject of a Premier League probe because of his favourable comments regarding West Ham's Ravel Morrison, Meulensteen seemed happy to talk about Taylor.

"I rate him," the Fulham boss said.

"I rated him when I was at United. The boy was very unfortunate. He had that horrific injury at a time when he was really playing at his best and he had top four qualities."

Meulensteen will face one of the biggest tests since taking over at Fulham over the next few days.

Fulham play Sheffield United in the FA Cup on Sunday before they take on fellow relegation candidates Swansea on Tuesday night.

The Cottagers then host Southampton, making it three games in seven days for the west London club.

"It is unfair," the former Manchester United coach said.

"It forces you to utilise the squad but that is why we have a squad."



http://www.london24.com/sport/fulham/we_have_put_a_bid_in_fulham_boss_hopes_to_sign_swansea_man_1_3238114?usurv=completed

WhiteJC

 
Sheffield United's Nigel Clough on the FA Cup: 'It's about the glory'
The Blades manager on his memories of the 1991 Cup final, life in League One and the possibility of an upset against Fulham

When Nigel Clough comes up the stairs at Sheffield United's training ground his top is adorned with the number that brings back memories of those days when he graced football pitches for his dad's Nottingham Forest. Brian Clough always did refer to his son as "the No9" and Nigel has stuck with it in the quarter of a century since.

He is here to talk about the FA Cup, and the chances of his team, 20th in League One, sending Fulham the same way as Aston Villa on Sunday. At one point the Sheffield Star correspondent asks about team news and Clough works out they are down to "15 and anyone else we can scramble together". Yet Fulham would be unwise to underestimate them after what happened at Villa Park in the last round, when Paul Lambert's comments about the FA Cup made it a victory for anyone who still cherishes the history of this competition.

Clough certainly fits into that category and has to stop himself at one point, apologising after mentioning the financial implications for a third-tier club facing top-division opposition. "I don't want to sound like a Premier League manager," he points out. "It's about more than that. Whatever we made from Villa Park, whatever we'll make against Fulham, it's about the glory of the day and what it means for the supporters. That gets lost sometimes. The glory, the memories. That's what is really important."

Anyone who wants to argue the point need only bring up what happened to Clough's Forest in the 1991 final against Spurs and those infamous tackles from Paul Gascoigne on Garry Parker and Gary Charles. The Sultans of Ping FC, a Cork-based indie band of the 1990s, once released a track commemorating Nigel as a "nice young man with a lovely smile". But the nice young man – now approaching his 48th birthday – becomes unusually animated when he is reminded of that 2-1 defeat.

"Roger Milford," he proclaims, with more than a hint of lingering indignation. "That's my memory. If the referee had done his job properly, he might also have saved Paul Gascoigne's career. Instead poor old Gazza goes off on a stretcher, after two of the worst tackles you will ever see, and without receiving so much as a yellow card. Even to this day, I'm still absolutely flabbergasted. The first one [Gascoigne's chest-high lunge on Parker] was a red card and would have changed the entire complexion of the game."

He considers it one of the disappointments of his professional life and, 23 years on, this is also the first occasion he has ever broached the subject about what happened before extra time, when Clough Sr stayed in his seat rather than trying to lift his players. Spurs went on to win courtesy of Des Walker's own goal but Nigel thinks his father's inaction was irrelevant. "We were told enough during the week to know what we were supposed to do," he says matter-of-factly. "It was more of a statement that he trusted us."

As a manager, Clough was in charge of the Burton Albion side that gave Manchester United an almighty scare in 2006, featuring one team at the top of English football and another that was 14th in the Conference and had a sponsorship deal with Bovril, a captain who doubled up as a builder and a ground named after a tyre factory. "We're being outplayed by Burton," United's supporters could be heard singing during that 0-0 draw. Clough looks back on it as a "miracle."

A win for his current team on Sunday would not generate the same publicity, but it is also the case that the controversy surrounding Lambert's comments meant the Blades did not get the coverage they deserved after their 2-1 victory at Villa. "We're not looking for public acclaim," Clough says. "We know ourselves the size of the achievement, when we play well and when we deserve the accolades. The way the 6,000 supporters went to support the team, that's enough for us. It was probably the best day out they had had for a few years and it's important for us because it's been a struggle in the league."

Fulham certainly have the appearance of a team that could be vulnerable, not least because they have to balance Sunday's game with an important league fixture at Swansea City on Tuesday. "I'm sure they will be conscious there could be an upset," Clough says. "It's why it's on TV and why all the media are here. But whatever side Fulham pick, there are still two leagues' difference. If they're bang at it and we're bang at it, we'll lose. But if they're off it and we play very well, we have a chance. It's possible, but we will need a very good day."

Clough took over in late October, three and a half weeks after his tenure at Derby County ended with the sack after almost five years, almost completely out of the blue. This is not the time when he wants to go public with his grievances, but what happened at Derby cut him deep. "I've had an awful lot of letters from supporters wishing me luck," he says. "That's the nicest thing. I've lived in Derby for over 40 years and that relationship with the people there will stay the same."

His focus now is ensuring a club that was in the Premier League eight years ago does not slide into the fourth tier. "It's a Championship club at least, but it's difficult for a big club to be viable in League One," he says. "Leeds and Forest and Leicester have all been down and experienced it. Wolves are down here now but it's different for them because they're protected by the parachute payments. We aren't, and it makes life tough."


http://www.theguardian.com/football/2014/jan/23/sheffield-united-nigel-clough-fa-cup?


WhiteJC

 
Lazio say no to Senderos

Lazio have turned down the chance to sign Fulham defender Philippe Senderos, according to the Corriere dello Sport.

Philippe Senderos' future is unclear after Serie A side Lazio reportedly rejected the chance to sign him from Fulham.

The Swiss international had been tipped to sign for the Biancocelesti, who are looking to add to their defensive ranks.

Senderos appeared to be a good fit for Lazio, who are looking to avoid spending heavily but need an experienced centre-back.

With his contract expiring at the end of the season, Fulham would be likely to accept a lower offer for the 28-year-old.

But today's Corriere dello Sport believes that Fulham offered Senderos to Lazio but the Eternal City side refused.

Whether Lazio don't see Senderos as being up to the task or whether they are ready to wait until he becomes a free agent remains to be seen.

The tough-tackling defender has played in Italy before, wearing the shirt of AC Milan for the 2008-09 campaign on loan from Arsenal.

Senderos seemed to enjoy his time in Italy and wanted to make the deal permanent but the Rossoneri let him return to Arsenal.


http://hereisthecity.com/en-gb/2014/01/24/lazio-say-no-to-senderos/?

WhiteJC

 
John Arne Riise is sure that Clint Dempsey is still a force

Clint Dempsey has returned to Fulham with a point to prove according to John Arne Riise.

Dempsey, 30, is on loan from Seattle Sounders until late February and Riise believes the forward is determined to make an impact after his spell in the MLS.

Riise said: "People say when you go to America you are on your way down but you can see he is still on top of his game in training.

"He knew he was going to come back to the Premier League on loan so he has stayed fit. He did very well when he was here before, and then at Tottenham, but he is really keen to prove that he is still more than good enough. He is aggressive and knows the Premier League so he has given us a boost."

Dempsey has failed to score in his first three games back but Riise is confident the forward will get goals to help Fulham in their bid to pull clear of the drop zone.

"He can play in any position in midfield or up front and he can give us some goals that we have been missing," said Riise.

Fulham face Sheffield United in the FA Cup on Sunday and Rene Meulensteen is likely to rest key players with next Tuesday's crucial trip to Swansea in mind.



http://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/john-arne-riise-is-sure-that-clint-dempsey-is-still-a-force-9082450.html

WhiteJC

 
Win Signed Clint Dempsey Fulham Shirt in Our Fan Friday Giveaway!



It's Fan Friday at Bleacher Report, and courtesy of the fine people at Fulham (@FulhamFC), we have a fabulous prize for you in today's competition.

You could win a shirt signed by returning loan star and Fulham hero Clint Dempsey.

It's the perfect prize for a Fulham fan, a U.S. supporter or just someone who loves the game.

The competition is open worldwide. If you're a Fulham fan abroad, scroll down to the bottom for information on how to follow the club wherever you are.



How to win

It couldn't be simpler: To win the shirt, all you need to do is jump on to Twitter and retweet the tweet below.


http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1934972-win-signed-clint-dempsey-fulham-shirt-in-our-fan-friday-giveaway?


WhiteJC

 
Taylor swoop 'simmering' - Meulensteen

Fulham boss Rene Meulensteen has confirmed that a bid for Swansea City left-back Neil Taylor is currently "simmering".

The Cottagers have been linked with a move for the Wales international during this transfer window and have already had one bid turned down by the Swans as boss Michael Laudrup is reluctant to sell unless he can bring in some cover. It is thought Taylor is keen to leave for Craven Cottage as he wants regular first-team action and he has become frustrated playing second fiddle to Ben Davies at the Liberty Stadium. And Meulensteen, who revealed that former Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson was keen to sign the then youngster from Wrexham before he suffered a serious ankle injury, has now broken his silence by confirming that an offer has been made and the Londoners are hopeful of securing the player's signature. He said: "We have put a bid in. It's on the table. It's simmering. "I rate him. I rated him when I was at United. The boy was very unfortunate. He had that horrific injury at a time when he was really playing at his best and he had top four qualities."



Read more at: http://www.clubcall.com/swansea-city/taylor-swoop-simmering---meulensteen-1699716.html?

WhiteJC

 
Why Everton should sign this Fulham star if Traore deal collapses
If the Monaco man stays put, the Toffees should target Bulgarian striker Dimitar Berbatov.

The ripples of Radamel Falcao's injury on Wednesday night have been slowly spreading around the world over the past couple of days, with the Colombian striker ruled out for six months.

Colombia's World Cup bid has been severely set back, while Monaco's attempts to catch Paris St-Germain in Ligue 1 have been derailed, but Everton could also suffer as a result.

The Toffees are currently 9/2 to claim a Champions League spot, but are in desperate need of striking reinforcements to sustain their challenge.

Nikica Jelavic has been sold to Hull, while Romelu Lukaku has scored just one in his past nine games.

Monaco forward Lacina Traore was on the brink of completing a loan move to Merseyside when Falcao picked up his injury and the suggestions are that Claudio Ranieri will now keep the towering forward in France.

If that happens Roberto Martinez will have to move quickly to bolster his options and a budget-friendly move for Fulham's Dimitar Berbatov must be just the ticket.

The languorous Bulgarian is reportedly available for just £1.5million as his contract expires in the summer and has already been linked with both Spurs and Arsenal.

Although Berbatov has only scored four times in the Premier League this term, his tally of 15 in 33 games last season proves he still has the chops at England's highest level.

Far from renowned for his athletic pressing play, the striker's output should not suffer with age and although he will not provide the same energetic harrying Lukaku offers, Berbatov is adept at holding up the ball.

The former Spurs and Man Utd man finished last season strongly, scoring seven in the Cottagers' final 12 matches to fire them clear of the relegation zone.

A similar run at Everton could be crucial in helping Martinez's side clamber over local rivals Liverpool into the final Champions League berth.

Everton to finish in the top four @ 9/2



- See more at: http://bwinbetting.com/leagues/premier-league/everton-sign-fulham-star-traore-deal-collapses,51189.html?#sthash.h3bEk9Ou.dpuf

WhiteJC

 
West Ham news: Hammers confirm mystery loans


West Ham's Boleyn Ground during the League Cup semi-final against Manchester City on Tuesday [Action Images]

Exclusive


West Ham have confirmed for the first time in their annual accounts that they have borrowed a total of £27.8m from the mysterious Vibrac Corporation.

The accounts revealed via Companies House that the club borrowed £12.8m as a pay day loan in September 2012. It was repaid in August 2013.

The club then took out a further £15m short term loan in August 2013 against future Premier League TV income.

The Vibrac Corporation's involvement in football are not a new phenomenen with Everton borrowing £13 million back in 2011 at a rate of 10% interest and the club has have renewed that facility every year since.

The Vibrac corporation are based in the same building as BCR Sports, the company through which Robert Earl controls his stake in Everton.

In April 2012, a facility was also provided to Southampton by the Corporation.

Saints fans called for transparency over a mysterious financial document lodged by the club at Companies House at the time.

In April last year, a similar facility was also provided to Fulham to enable the club to borrow against future guaranteed income.

However it is claimed this facility was settled early when Shahid Khan purchased Fulham.In the Fulham transaction they authorised the Premier League to pay £16million into Vibrac's account with Barclays.

Fulham put up Craven Cottage itself as security for the loan. In the draft mortgage document submitted to Companies House, an accountant named Robert Heppel was given as a witness to Vibrac's  side of the agreement.



http://www.sportsdirectnews.com/premier-league-news/39019-west-ham-news-hammers-confirm-mystery-loans.php#.UuKMUP0eKL8


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