Wednesday Fulham Stuff (09/06/10)...

[whitejc]

http://www.thisisanfield.com/2010/06/09/dalglish-hodgson-frontrunners-for-anfield-job/?
Dalglish & Hodgson frontrunners for Anfield job

The vacant manager’s job appears to be a two horse race at present, with current club ambassador Kenny Dalglish and Fulham boss Roy Hodgson the frontunners.

Tony Barrett writes in The Times today that Dalglish is prepared to takeover for a second spell in the Anfield:

Dalglish has told friends that he would like the job, although he is not willing to compromise the club in any way by making his interest in the position known.

This news came on the back of journalist Henry Winter writing on his Twitter feed that he recently worked on a new book with Dalglish and that he believes the Scot would love a crack at returning to the helm at Liverpool.

Dalglish remains the last Liverpool manager to win the League title and is the only contender to have won the Premier League – with Blackburn back in 1995. He has, though, been out of football management for the past decade. He left the club in 1991 for personal and health reasons.

Meanwhile, David Maddock in The Mirror writes that Hodgson is the man Liverpool will look to after Rafa Benitez’s departure last week. He explains:

The club’s directors are certain to give the green light to make Hodgson their official target within the next two days, and approach his London club with an offer of compensation to make him the next Liverpool manager.

Former Inter Milan boss Hodgson has a one-year rolling contract with the Craven Cottage outfit, negotiated at the start of the just completed season. Crucially, it contains a clause which allows him to leave to join a top club for a compensation figure of around £2.5million.

Hodgson guided Fulham to the Europa League Final last season and has previous experience across Europe, including two spells with Inter Milan.

[whitejc]

http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Liverpool-to-make-formal-approach-for-Fulham-boss-Roy-Hodgson-in-next-48-hours-Exclusive-article453333.html
Liverpool to make formal approach for Hodgson in next 48 hours - Exclusive

Liverpool will make a formal approach for Roy Hodgson to become their new manager within the next 48 hours.

The Fulham boss is the clear front-runner from a short list drawn up by Kop legend Kenny Dalglish and MD Christian Purslow, to be presented to the Anfield board this week.

The club's directors are certain to give the green light to make Hodgson their official target within the next two days, and approach his London club with an offer of compensation to make him the next Liverpool manager.

Former Inter Milan boss Hodgson has a one-year rolling contract with the Craven Cottage outfit, negotiated at the start of the just completed season. Crucially, it contains a clause which allows him to leave to join a top club for a compensation figure of around £2.5million.

The experienced coach has maintained a diplomatic silence over Liverpool interest in recent days, but he has made clear his desire to have one last opportunity with one of the Premier League's leading clubs.

Dalglish and Purslow have pinpointed six key qualities they require in their choice to succeed Rafa Benitez, and Hodgson is the candidate who ticks all the boxes.

His massive experience in Europe and extensive contacts within UEFA aligned to his winning record and diplomatic skills make him an attractive choice in a time of deep uncertainty at Anfield, as the club's American owners insufferably draw out the plan to sell their holding.

The other leading candidate on the short-list is Bayern Munich's Louis Van Gaal, but both Dalglish and Purslow recognise the difficulty in prising him away from the German champions, and Hodgson will be their first port of call.

No timescale has been set on the process of replacing Benitez, but sources within the club suggest that an appointment is imminent with the new man destined to be in place before the end of the month.

Hodgson has a contract to work for the BBC as pundit during the World Cup in South Africa, but he will be happy to break off from commentating to conclude any negotiations with the Anfield board, and will be in position to identify potential transfer targets.

Fulham want to keep their manager after he steered them to the UEFA Cup final in May, but Liverpool will not try to haggle and will meet the compensation figure in Hodgson's contract, meaning the London club will have no option but to allow him to leave.

The payment to Fulham will not prove too much of a barrier for Liverpool, not least because they are about to receive a similar level of compensation from Inter Milan for the Anfield backroom staff who are set to join Benitez in Italy.

He has negotiated to take several of his trusted lieutenants with him, including his Reds first team coach Mauricio Pellegrino, fitness coach Paco de Miguel and keeper coach Xavi Valero.

[whitejc]

http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/3005694/Dalglish-Let-me-boss-Liverpool.html
Dalglish: Let me boss Liverpool

KENNY DALGLISH has dramatically thrown his hat into the ring to be Liverpool's next manager.

The Kop legend was initially thought to be playing a key role in finding Rafa Benitez's successor after the Spaniard left last week.

But in reality, Dalglish was never part of the process with managing director Christian Purslow the only man earmarked to search for a boss.

Sources close to King Kenny, who managed the club between 1985 and 1991, have confirmed he would jump at the chance of taking the reins again.

And now Purslow is poised to hand the Scot, whose last job in England was with Newcastle 12 years ago, the task of restoring the Reds to their former glories.

Dalglish, 59, returned to Anfield as the club's Academy Ambassador last July and would bring in Ian Rush, another Kop idol, with him should he get the job.

Turning to Dalglish also saves any compensation claim, such as the £2.5million it would need to grab Roy Hodgson from Fulham.

Benitez will be confirmed as Inter Milan's new boss today and is expected to take most of his Liverpool backroom staff with him.


Read more: http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/3005694/Dalglish-Let-me-boss-Liverpool.html#ixzz0qKxLR3gb

[The Equalizer]

An interesting bit about Dempsey saying that Hodgson should go if offered the job. The particular bit that interested me was this:

Dempsey said, according to Sky Sports News.

So, did Dempsey actually say it, or did Sky Sports News only suggest that Dempsey said it?

[White Noise]

http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2010/jun/09/liverpool-kenny-dalglish-rafael-benitez

Kenny Dalglish throws hat into ring in surprise bid to manage Liverpool


• Scot believes he can convince Gerrard and Torres to stay

• Benítez finalises £4m-a-year deal with Internazionale

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Andy Hunter The Guardian, Wednesday 9 June 2010


Kenny Dalglish could be set to make a surprise return, 19 years after quitting as Liverpool manager. Photograph: Tom Jenkins for the Guardian
 
Kenny Dalglish has told Liverpool he is prepared to make a sensational return as manager as the previous incumbent, Rafael Benítez, agreed to become the new coach of Internazionale last night.

Dalglish, who quit the Anfield job in 1991, is currently charged with identifying the club's next manager alongside the managing director, Christian Purslow. The Liverpool legend, however, is willing to enter his own name into that process and believes he can revive the club's fortunes on a limited budget and, crucially, convince Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres not to leave this summer.

Dalglish, 59, has admitted that he regrets quitting as Liverpool manager 19 years ago, when the stresses of dealing with the Hillsborough disaster took their toll, and claimed he would have been ready to return after a brief sabbatical.

The Scot's desire for the position may present a problem for Purslow and the Anfield board, who are looking at replacing Benítez with a manager currently in the game. Roy Hodgson emerged as the favourite in the aftermath of the Spaniard's exit last week, although no official approach has been made to Fulham. Any appointment of Dalglish, who has not managed since his acrimonious departure from Celtic in 2000, would appease many Liverpool supporters at a turbulent time. With the club lacking the resources to entice many leading names this summer, he could also offer the emotive pull to convince Gerrard to resist overtures from Real Madrid.

Dalglish first became Liverpool manager in the days after the Heysel disaster in 1985, when he took over from Joe Fagan. The Scot, who had signed from Celtic as a player for £440,000 in 1977 and won seven league titles, three European Cups and five domestic trophies at Anfield, secured the Double in his first season in charge and during his six-year spell won two more titles and the FA Cup in 1989, following the Hillsborough disaster. He returned to the game with Blackburn in late 1991 and took them from the second tier to become Premier League champions in 1995 and also had a short period at Newcastle, steering them to a second-place finish and the 1998 FA Cup final.

While Liverpool ponder this development, the man they parted company with "by mutual consent" last week has completed a dramatic change in fortunes and agreed to coach the European champions. Benítez's unveiling at Internazionale is now a formality, according to the president Massimo Moratti, after he accepted a three-year contract worth in the region of €5m (£4.1m) per season. "We have agreed the final details, which were not important things," Moratti said in a statement on the Inter website last night. "All that is needed now is a counter-signature. Tomorrow we will tell you when he will be presented."

Benítez has been on holiday in Sardinia while his Anfield departure was negotiated and soon began talks over his move to San Siro, where he will replace José Mourinho. He is due to sign this week and after hiring Liverpool's first-team coach Mauricio Pellegrino, goalkeeping coach Xavi Valero and fitness coach Paco de Miguel, may also tender a bid for the disillusioned midfielder Javier Mascherano.

[White Noise]

Clint: No man gets left behind

By MARK IRWIN

Published: Today


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CLINT DEMPSEY has revealed the USA have been getting their inspiration from the helicopter pilot behind the film Black Hawk Down.

US Army commander Dan Jollotta has been drafted in by coach Bob Bradley to fire up the squad with tales of his daring rescue mission in war-torn Somalia 11 years ago.

Now the American players are adopting the Delta Force catchphrase 'no man gets left behind' as they look to chop England down to size on Saturday.

Fulham midfielder Dempsey, 27, said: "We have had one of the pilots from Black Hawk Down come in to speak to us about working together as a team and it's been really cool.

"We've watched some documentaries and listened to all his stories about how the Special Operations regiment went into Mogadishu when one of our Black Hawk helicopters went down.

"He brought into reality his experiences of coming together for one team goal, when you have to put your egos and all thoughts of personal glory to one side.

"He's stressed how it is all about the team. To do the best you need everyone on the same page.

"You can't think non-stop about the World Cup because it would just stress us all out. But this is a lesson we will all take into this World Cup."

Jollotta, who won the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Bronze Star Medal for leading that famous mission, has not been the only motivational speaker addressing the US players this week.

Bill Russell, the ex-Boston Celtics star and most successful player in basketball history, has also visited the squad's HQ on the outskirts of Pretoria ahead of Saturday's Group C opener.

But Dempsey is not just relying on all-American heroes to show him how to upset the odds against England in Rustenburg.

He is also looking a little closer to home and the lessons he has learned from Fulham boss Roy Hodgson during his three years at Craven Cottage.

Dempsey added: "Like Fulham, the US are used to being the underdogs when it comes to soccer - and that's how we like it because it means we stick to what we're good at.

"No one ever thought that Fulham could get to the final of the Europa League.

"And no one thought that we could inflict Manchester United's heaviest defeat of the season. But we did.

"It doesn't matter what anyone outside of the group thinks, only how the people within it feel.

"If you have belief, then it's contagious. You can't live life in fear.

"You have to go out and take advantage of the opportunities you get to do something special.

"The guys in the US squad have that winning mentality and now we have to show that against England and our other group games.

"Fulham beat Man United by staying compact defensively, with two solid banks of four and choosing the right moments to get forward.

"The USA play in a similar style and we'll look to do the same thing against England.

"I see a lot of similarities between Fulham and the US teams. We both like to play 4-4-2, our outside midfield players tuck in rather than being wingers.

"And we work very hard at keeping our shape. We try to frustrate our opponents and whether it's Fulham or the US we have players who are confident and believe they can win every game.

"Every time you play a top team and get a result, you take positives from it whether it be United, Chelsea, Liverpool, Spain or England.

"Beating Spain in the Confederations Cup last year was the complete game for us in the sense that we took our chances and made life difficult for them.

"We did the same thing in the first half of the final against Brazil but just couldn't hold on to the lead.

"We've shown a few times that when we're on top of a game then we're tough to beat. But we know we're going to have to bring our A-game to get out of this group."
 
Dempsey has been preparing for Saturday's game by playing chess.

Other members of the squad visited a nearby game reserve and learned how to handle lions.

And Texas-born Dempsey is confident his team-mates will know how to deal with England's Three Lions - and has already identified a possible weakness in Fabio Capello's side.

He said: "Glen Johnson is a very effective player but when he gets forward I will have a chance to hit England on the counter and give them something to worry about.

"Both England's full-backs like to get forward and that will leave holes in the pocket for us to exploit.

"It's a risk involved which could make England vulnerable.

"England have good players in every position. They play for the best clubs in the world, reach Champions League finals and win many trophies.

"That means they are under pressure to go far at this tournament. And there will be no excuses if they don't do well."



Read more: http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/worldcup2010/3005410/Clint-No-man-gets-left-behind.html#ixzz0qLNobUjw

[White Noise]

http://www.liverpooldailypost.co.uk/everton-fc/everton-fc-news/2010/06/09/everton-fc-manager-david-moyes-rejects-the-chance-to-sign-philippe-senderos-joins-fulham-92534-26616226/

Everton FC manager David Moyes rejects the chance to sign Philippe Senderos joins Fulham


Jun 9 2010 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post


DAVID MOYES has declined the opportunity to sign Philippe Senderos after the defender joined Fulham yesterday.

Senderos arrived at Everton in January with the club taking over the remaining six months of his contract from Arsenal.

The Switzerland international was keen to win a permanent move to Goodison but a combination of injury problems and the return to fitness of Phil Jagielka meant he was restricted to just three appearances.

And that was not enough to convince Moyes, the Everton manager opting not to pursue a free transfer for the player who will now move to Fulham after the World Cup.

Moyes, however, is still eager to bolster his resources having already signed Jermaine Beckford from Leeds United.

[White Noise]

http://www.kickoff.com/news/15958/eagles-move-etuhu-to-tears.php

Eagles move Etuhu to tears

Posted: 2010-06-08 21:47

Midfielder Dickson Etuhu was moved to tears on Tuesday when the whole squad surprised him with a birthday cake and football card signed by all of the squad, including officials and even the Nigerian Sports Minister. 

Luckily for the Fulham star, he escaped a more diabolic surprise, as earlier plans to dunk him in the pool were shelved due to a charity visit the team had to perform later in the afternoon to a children's home.

However, he was forced to make a speech in Pidgin English, a task which he found slightly more difficult than charging down intimidating opponents in the centre of midfield.

But he passed the test, barely, with one short statement "I wan thank all of una for this brithday cake."

Not exactly flowing pidgin, but it did the business, and as it was his birthday, the lads let it slide.


Colin Udoh

[White Noise]

http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2010/jun/08/world-cup-2010-clint-dempsey-usa-england

World Cup 2010: USA ready to cast off underdog tag, says Clint Dempsey

• 'We are used to being the underdog and it suits us'

• 'No one thought we'd get to final of Confederations Cup'

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Owen Gibson in Johannesburg guardian.co.uk,

Wednesday 9 June 2010 00.05 BST


Clint Dempsey said USA play in a similar style to Fulham and would try and do the same thing against England. Illustration: Stewart Kendall/Sportsphoto
 
England's first World Cup opponents will take inspiration from Fulham's unexpected European run and a US military hero when they line up on Saturday, according to Clint Dempsey.

The Fulham forward said a series of motivational talks, including one from a US helicopter pilot later immortalised in the film Black Hawk Down, and the example of his own club's domestic success last season would act as driving forces for a relaxed but focused USA team.

Claiming they would not specifically target Wayne Rooney's temperament in the wake of his outburst at the referee during a warm-up match, Dempsey then drew a series of parallels between his club side and his national one.

"Fulham beat Manchester United by staying compact defensively, with two solid banks of four and choosing our moments to get forward," he said, referring to their 3-0 victory over Rooney's club side. "The USA play in a similar style to Fulham and we'll try and do the same thing."

Although expectations have been raised among the USA fans by last year's run to the final of the Confederations Cup, Dempsey said the team would revel in their underdog status against England.

"We're used to being the underdog and it suits us, because we just stick to what we're good at. We're very strong defensively, like Fulham, and try to pick our moments when we go forward," he said.

It is also clear the USA will target England's attacking full-backs as potential weak spots, especially on the right.

"Glen Johnson is a good player, effective going forward, but when he gets forward we have a chance to hit them on the counter and give them something to worry about," Dempsey said. "There will be holes in that pocket he leaves open, so we have to make sure people are aware of that. Both their full-backs like to get forward and will leave holes."

Dempsey, who provided perhaps the most memorable highlight of Fulham's unlikely run to the Europa League final with his goal against Juventus, said there were other similarities beyond the mentality of the two sides. While Rooney would not receive special personal attention, it is the avowed aim of England's first opponents to frustrate them.

"We both play 4-4-2, our outside midfield players tuck in rather than being wingers, and we keep two solid banks of four. We try to frustrate our opponents and make life difficult for them."

The US are preparing at a remote farm an hour from Johannesburg and will move up to a base nearer Rustenburg later this week.

Dempsey, one of six players with more than 60 caps in a squad that blends youth and experience, said no one should mistake the relaxed demeanour of the squad for lack of focus or ambition.

"No one thought we'd get to the final of the Confederations Cup, but we did that. No one thought Fulham would get to the final of the Europa League, but we did that. It doesn't matter what anybody thinks of us, it only matters what people inside the group think of themselves. If you have belief, then it's contagious. You can't live life in fear."

That message had been rammed home by a series of motivational speakers before the squad left the US, he said, including a talk from the US Army helicopter pilot Dan Jollota. The pilot was one of the inspirations for Black Hawk Down, which was turned into a movie by Ridley Scott and told the story of a dangerous search and rescue mission in war torn Mogadishu.

The squad also heard from Bill Russell, the former Boston Celtics player who won the NBA's most valuable player award five times.

"The speakers helped us with team bonding. They brought into reality from their experiences about coming together for one team's goal and putting personal glory aside. It is about the team. To do the best that is what you need – everyone on the same page."

[White Noise]

http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/World-Cup-England-players-want-David-James-to-be-number-one-ahead-of-Robert-Green-and-Joe-Hart-article453189.html

England players want David James to be World Cup number one


Published 23:00 08/06/10


By John Cross

 
David James is the players' choice to be England's World Cup number one.

Veteran James, 39, is sweating on his place to start against the USA on Saturday even though he has been given the number one shirt.

West Ham keeper Rob Green and England rookie Joe Hart appear to have jumped ahead in Fabio Capello's plans.

But the players want James because he is more vocal and has experience. It is believed one player has even told Capello the players want James.

James has been battling with injury this season and missed training one day last week after Capello claimed he had a slight knee injury.

But James insists he is fit and ready to play and clearly has the backing of his England team mates with Capello still refusing to commit himself on who will be number one.

Green finished England's pre-World Cup training programme in goal for the second half in Monday's final friendly with Platinum Stars.

Manchester City keeper Hart started the game but it is believed Capello was not impressed with his distribution.

James has made one start in the last 14 months but his extra presence and experience is the reason why the England players would prefer him.

Ex-Liverpool keeper James - who is a target for Fulham and West Ham following Portsmouth's relegation - is struggling to convince the England medical team that he is 100 per cent fit.

But James himself insists that he is fully fit and is desperate to play and be number one having been in two previous squads in 2002 and 2006 but has never kicked a ball in a World Cup.

[White Noise]

http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/World-Cup-USA-draft-in-Top-Gun-hero-and-Blackhawk-Down-inspiration-Dan-Jollota-to-give-pre-England-game-pep-talk-article453087.html

USA draft in Top Gun hero to give pre-England game pep talk


Published 23:00 08/06/10


By Simon Bird

The USA have drafted in the hero helicopter pilot who inspired the film Blackhawk Down to inspire a victory over England.

Coach Bob Bradley called up legendary military man Commander Dan Jollota, and the veteran Top Gun gave the footballers a lecture in bravery and team work, passing on the US soldier's motto of "no man gets left behind."

USA can emulate Fulham success at World Cup, says Clint Dempsey   

Jollota could be the USA's secret weapon with players, including Fulham's Clint Dempsey, yesterday admitting it has given the squad a special edge in the build up to the clash with Fabio Capello's men in Rustenburg on Saturday.

Recalling lessons from of one of the US's biggest battles since the Vietnam War back in 1993, Jollota has helped mould Bradley's men into a unit who look after each other on the sporting field of battle.

The Blackhawk Down mission saw US and UN forces attempt to capture Somali warlord Mohamed Farrah Aidid in Mogadishu, Somalia. In the intense battle with local militia a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter was downed and the subsequent rescue of its crew inspired the film.

The veteran has 33 years service, winning the Bronze Star Medal and the Distinguished Flying Cross and Fulham star Dempsey says his contribution has been invaluable.

Eleven times NBA champion coach Bill Russell of the Boston Celtics has also spoken to the USA team.

Dempsey said: "We have had the opportunity to have some speakers come in and it has been cool. Like we had one of the pilots from Blackhawk Down come in to speak. And we had Bill Russell come in to talk to us.

"We've got to see some documentaries and things that bring the team together. It is good to do things like that.

"The speakers helped us with team bonding. They brought into reality from their experiences about coming together for one team goal. That you have to put egos aside and putting personal glory aside. It is about the team. To do the best that is what you need. Everyone on the same page."

The images of war were in contract to the idyllic scene at the US training base yesterday at Irene Farm - complete with free range chickens and dairy cows.

Dempsey also admitted some squad members visited a Lion Sanctuary this week and handled cubs - hopefully the only time they'll be taming Three Lions this week.

He said: "Some people went lion handling on the day off. I had already done that. This time I played golf and did some fishing too. We have been playing ping pong. You can play chess and plenty to keep us busy. I have played chess to show my team mates how it is done. Most guys are playing FIFA Xbox 360 against each other. I don't play it much. I like storyline games or action games.

"You can't think about being at the World Cup none stop or it would stress you out. I am someone who doesn't like to think about it all too much."

[White Noise]

I skipped school to see USA 94


By GEOFF SWEET

Published: Today
 
JOHN PANTSIL'S World Cup dream began by bunking off school.

The Fulham full-back starred for Ghana at Germany 2006 and should pick up his 56th cap against Serbia on Sunday.

But back in 1994, in Pantsil's home town of Berekum, it was a very different story for a little boy who ought to have been sitting at his desk.

Pantsil, who will be 29 on Tuesday, explained: "I was at school and used to run away to go and watch the World Cup.

"I wasn't allowed but I was in love with football. I wanted to play football in the future, so yeah - that's it.

"I don't remember the exact game that I first watched, but it was in the USA and I saw the big crowds, the big stadiums and the good pitches, and I heard about good players and the good goalkeepers.

"My dream was to come up and become like one of them and to play on the big stage for people to see me. So dreams do come true."

Germany, Serbia and Australia await a Ghana team far better prepared for the big stage this time than they were at Germany 2006.

Then they made it through to the last 16 only to draw Brazil and lose 3-0.

What went wrong? Pantsil said: "Inexperience killed the team. Brazil were a world-class team, they've won the World Cup for so many years and it was our first experience of playing in the World Cup.

"They were relaxed and kept the ball, and one pass beat all our defenders. They got an early goal, then a second...

"But it did mean we gained experience and we know what we're going to do this time.

"We're happy with the performance we put up in the African Nations Cup earlier this year when we reached the final.

"That will lead us to the World Cup in good stead."

Pantsil is also delighted to be playing in Africa.

He is convinced this will help Ghana and is also sure an African team can actually lift the World Cup for the first time.

He said: "Yes, it will help us but still there will be more pressure because we are hosting and Africans are expecting more from us.

"But we are determined to do that and do well - not only Ghana but all the African countries who have qualified.

"In the World Cup anything can happen. But we are hosting it in Africa so I am expecting an African nation to win the cup.

"I don't think any Europeans, or Brazil or Spain have a chance to win. We, the Africans want to win the cup."

That confidence is strengthened by the partisan support for hosts South Africa, Ghana, the Ivory Coast, Nigeria and Algeria.

Pantsil said: "The crowds are amazing. When you start playing and the horns start you know what you have to do.

"The noise makes me play better and puts me on my toes. I don't lose concentration, it's like my confidence will boost up.

"It's a big achievement for the African continent and the World Cup is going to bring all the Africans together to support each other.

"It doesn't matter if your country is not going to play - it's in Africa, hosting the World Cup for the first time.

"All African countries are waiting for the D-Day to come up because it's going to bring us together. The unity will bring joy to all Africans."



Read more: http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/worldcup2010/3005659/I-skipped-school-to-see-USA-94.html#ixzz0qLRXEFBK

[White Noise]

http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/world-cup/dempsey-warns-capello-not-to-underestimate-us-underdogs-attacking-bite-1994821.html

Dempsey warns Capello not to underestimate US underdogs' attacking bite


Motivational talk from 'Black Hawk Down' pilot has England's opponents fired up for Saturday

By Steve Tongue in Johannesburg


Wednesday, 9 June 2010


As reward and recognition for a fine season's work, Fulham will be represented at the World Cup in five different squads – three of the African sides plus Mark Schwarzer's Australia and the United States – but their midfielder Clint Dempsey is claiming supporters' loyalties on the basis that his national team are the Cottagers in stars and stripes.

The small problem for patriots on the Hammersmith End, of course, is that the States' first opposition in Group C are none other than England, but after that they should be able to enjoy the similarities with the football they are used to. As Dempsey, who is likely to be in a familiar berth on the flank puts it: "We both play 4-4-2, our outside midfield players tuck in rather than being wingers and we keep two solid banks of four. We're very strong defensively, like Fulham. We try to frustrate our opponents and make life difficult for them. Whether it's Fulham or the US, we have players who are confident and believe they can win every game they play in. You want guys who believe that."

Giving away more than may be advisable, he even spells out how the US will be attempting to emulate the way Roy Hodgson's side overcame teams like Manchester United, Liverpool and Juventus last season: "We beat Man United by staying compact defensively, with those two banks of four, choosing our moments to get forward. The US play in a similar style to Fulham and we'll try and do the same thing. Every time you play a top team and get a result you take positives from it, whether it be United, Liverpool or Chelsea."

At international level, make that Spain, the European champions they defeated at the Confederations Cup in South Africa last summer, before leading Brazil 2-0 at half-time in the final, only to lose 3-2. "Beating Spain last summer was a complete game for us, in the sense that we took our chances and made life difficult for them. In the first half against Brazil we did the same thing, but couldn't hold on to it. We've shown a few times that when we're on top of game we're tough to beat, but we're going to have to bring our A-game to get out of the group.

"I'm used to being the underdog whether with Fulham or the US, and it suits us, because we just stick to what we're good at. That's the way it'll be until we change people's perceptions. The most important thing is having players who believe they can win any game they play in."

Dempsey, a Texan, was speaking yesterday at the quaint rural training headquarters of the US squad, all farm smells and clucking hens. It is as far removed as imaginable from the bustle of their Hamburg base at the 2006 World Cup, where defeats by the Czech Republic and Ghana meant an early flight home and unemployment for the coach Bruce Arena. His successor Bob Bradley has brought in a number of younger players, including his son Michael, who should be alongside Dempsey in midfield on Saturday, as well as building up an all-for-one attitude. There have been motivational talks by a number of figures including Dan Jolotta, who won the Distinguished Flying Cross after leading rescue missions into Mogadishu, Somalia, which became the subject of the book and film Black Hawk Down.

"The speakers helped us with team bonding," Dempsey said. "They brought us their experiences about coming together for one team goal, putting egos aside and putting personal glory aside. It is about the team. Everyone on the same page." The page that lists Saturday's squad will naturally have 11 names more prominent than others. Dempsey will expect to be one of those wide players tucking inside, with DaMarcus Beasley, who was briefly at Manchester City and has just left Rangers, on the other side. Unless there is a clever bluff going on, it sounds as if that pair will sit tight, wait for Glen Johnson and Ashley Cole to go forward and then exploit the spaces left: "Glen Johnson is a good player, effective going forward, but when he gets forward we have a chance to hit them on the counter and give them something to worry about. Both their full-backs like to get forward and will leave holes."

Lessons learnt there from the Premier League. So back to Fulham again: "No one thought Fulham would get to the final of the Europa League, but we did that. No one thought we'd get to the final of the Confederations Cup, but we did that. It doesn't matter what anybody thinks of us, it only matters what people inside the group think of themselves. If you have belief then it's contagious. You can't live life in fear. You've got to go out and take advantage of the opportunities you get to do something special. The guys here have that mentality and we have to show that in these games."

Five Americans who can hurt England

Landon Donovan

Americans love their stats and the LA Galaxy forward has given them plenty to tot up from his 10 years and 123 appearances with the national team: 42 goals and 45 assists are both national records. After his spell at Goodison, Everton fans will testify he can be a threat.

Oguchi Onyewu

"Gooch", the big central defender, may hurt England's strikers in a literal sense, which will test Wayne Rooney's powers of self-control. Strong in the air, he has Champions League experience with Milan but was unimpressive during a loan move to Newcastle in 2007.

Carlos Bocanegra

Experienced captain used to European football after four seasons at Fulham – where he was also used at centre-back – and two with Rennes. Will hope to test Aaron Lennon and Glen Johnson with threatening runs and crosses from his left-back position.

Clint Dempsey

Has become a cult figure at Fulham after being signed from New England Patriots by Chris Coleman in 2007. Has flourished under Roy Hodgson and has the happy knack of weighing in with crucial goals – witness his stunning winner against Juventus in the Europa League.

Edson Buddle

The athletic striker, who plays for LA Galaxy, has suddenly emerged as a serious contender to start on Saturday after seven years of being ignored since his first cap. England's spies were impressed as he bagged two fine goals against Australia last weekend.

[White Noise]

http://www.oleole.com/blogs/arseblog/posts/the-official-arsenal-centre-half-exodus-2010-begins-in-earnest


The Official Arsenal Centre-Half Exodus 2010® begins in earnest


Wednesday, 09 June 10, 08:26 AM

What a refreshing change to be able to bring you some actual transfer news this morning. Not gossip, tittle-tattle or tabloid scuttlebutt. A nailed on signing.

Sadly enough it's Fulham who are making the signing, not us, and the Official Arsenal Centre-Half Exodus 2010 has begun as Philippe Senderos yesterday became a cottager. He signed a three year deal with Fulham who have snapped him up on a free transfer.

Regular readers will know I've long had a soft spot for Senderos and I do feel we could have handled his situation a lot better. He was a bit error prone, as young centre-halves often are, and people always talk about how he wasn't able to cope with Drogba. I think it would be fair to say that when you look at the amount of goals Drogba has scored in the last few years, and against whom he has scored them, Senderos was hardly alone there.

His Arsenal career effectively ended after the Champions League quarter-final against Liverpool and the manager's confidence in him seemed to wane dramatically. He spent a season on loan at AC Milan and came back to us when Vermaelen and Gallas were beginning their goalscoring partnership. He went to Everton on loan in January but played little due to injury. A fresh start was required and that's what he's got - I hope he does well there.

At the same time though I just wonder if we might have handled things a bit better. I remember his Champions League debut against Bayern Munich. Watching in a bar in Barcelona he was thunderously awesome that night and I felt we'd found a real player. I think it was Tony Adams who revealed that Arsene was considering making him captain when Vieira left and in the summer of 2006 he was handed the number 6 shirt. That's how highly he was rated. I'm sure the plan was for himself and Kolo Toure to become the first choice centre-halves.

The arrival of William Gallas put paid to that though and I think that was a big factor in subsequent events. Maybe he did find the pressure a bit difficult to cope with but remember he was a big part of the defence which got us to the CL final, there's plenty of pressure involved there. I might be a bit biased but my overall feeling is that Arsene could have dealt with things more adeptly. And when the manager goes out and signs a player like Silvestre, who at no stage in his Arsenal career ever did anything to suggest he was a better player than Senderos, you do have to wonder what he was thinking. When you see some players defended to the hilt for their calamitous mistakes it raises more questions. Why was Wenger so harsh with Senderos and Lehmann, for example, and so soft on Fabianski and Almunia? Why would he think a Man United cast-off was ever good enough for us? It's weird, really.

Anyway, it's all water under the bridge now, good luck to Big Phil and I hope his career gets back on track. And the Official Arsenal Centre-Half Exodus 2010® continues apace as Phil's great nemesis, William Gallas, looks set to move abroad for a bit of Greek. I saw this first on Arsenal-Analysis and according to radio reports in France he's set to move to Panathinaikos on a 3 year deal. Yesterday it was announced that he has refused to talk to the press for the duration of the World Cup.

Apparently this is a protest at Domenech or a protest at the French press or so as not to muddy the waters regarding his own future. Or something. It might even be something else and I'm sure if it is it's just as tedious as the others. Leaving aside the way he single-handedly ruined My Philippe's Arsenal career he's stained the legacy of a couple of real Arsenal legends. He and Kolo famously fell out and I think the biggest mistake of Arsene Wenger's time at Arsenal was making Gallas captain and the way he did it. Gilberto Silva found out via the press that Gallas had been given the armband and it turned out to be a most uninspired choice.

When things were good he coasted along in the role quite well. When we needed our captain to stand up and be strong he threw a tantrum at St Andrew's and sat down on the pitch crying. We know from various things that have been said that he's not exactly the most popular man in the dressing room either. He made comments which were too caustic and far too public. With hindsight you can see that what he said probably had some merit but he went about it like a madman trying to remove a splinter with a blunderbuss.

He was a good player on his day but he's not going to go down in the annals as a great Arsenal defender, not the way we've defended during his time here. And aside from all that we do love to talk about van Persie and Eduardo and all our other injury prone players, but in every season since he joined Gallas has spent a significant period on the sidelines. I never liked him when he was at Chelsea, I never really warmed to the bloke at all when he wore red and white, and while I'm not going to throw a party at his departure I won't be shedding any tears either. Enjoy the feta and the ouzo, William.

So, assuming that Gallas story is on the money (and even if it's not he's definitely going somewhere), that's two down. Sylvester is, I hope, on the verge of signing for Doncaster or someone like that, leaving Sol Campbell as the other potential departure. As I said before what the manager wants from Sol and what Sol wants from Arsenal might well be different things. At this stage of his career he's looking for a decent amount of football. However, at this stage of his career he really shouldn't be anything other than 4th choice at Arsenal next season. Arsene might want him to stay but he might well choose to go somewhere he can play more than he would with us.

That would mean our centre-half choices are Vermaelen and Djourou. No wonder the manager says on the end of season review DVD:

The basic improvements that have to be made is defensive and with spending the right money. The right money is not necessarily quantity because you never know how much people want for the players you want.

But what I mean by the right money is that we will not be scared to spend if needed.

At this point it's not about being scared. I'd be running around like a drunk dad on Christmas Eve lashing loads of centre-halves into a basket and hoping a couple of them turn out to be ok. To be fair he's got time enough but you would have to hope that our targets are already identified and work on bringing them in has already begun. You don't need me to repeat the names we've been linked with over the last few weeks. We'll probably sign none of them anyway, but it's vital we get ourselves sorted out in this area sooner rather than later.

And we've also signed a goalkeeper. Shame he's a 17 year old Argentine.

You'll notice I've managed to get through this whole blog without mentioning **** ******** and that's the way it's going to stay. Mostly because there's nothing left to talk about this morning.

Only two days till the World Cup though, that should help to pass some time. Till tomorrow, folks.

[whitejc]

http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/media-watch/reds-to-make-formal-approach-for-roy
Reds to make formal approach for Roy

The following story has been reproduced from today's media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club:

Liverpool will make a formal approach for Roy Hodgson to become their new manager within the next 48 hours.

The Fulham boss is the clear front-runner from a short list drawn up by Kop legend Kenny Dalglish and MD Christian Purslow, to be presented to the Anfield board this week.

The club's directors are certain to give the green light to make Hodgson their official target within the next two days, and approach his London club with an offer of compensation to make him the next Liverpool manager.

Former Inter Milan boss Hodgson has a one-year rolling contract with the Craven Cottage outfit, negotiated at the start of the just completed season. Crucially, it contains a clause which allows him to leave to join a top club for a compensation figure of around £2.5million.

The experienced coach has maintained a diplomatic silence over Liverpool interest in recent days, but he has made clear his desire to have one last opportunity with one of the Premier League's leading clubs.

Dalglish and Purslow have pinpointed six key qualities they require in their choice to succeed Rafa Benitez, and Hodgson is the candidate who ticks all the boxes.

His massive experience in Europe and extensive contacts within UEFA aligned to his winning record and diplomatic skills make him an attractive choice in a time of deep uncertainty at Anfield, as the club's American owners insufferably draw out the plan to sell their holding.

The other leading candidate on the short-list is Bayern Munich's Louis Van Gaal, but both Dalglish and Purslow recognise the difficulty in prising him away from the German champions, and Hodgson will be their first port of call.

No timescale has been set on the process of replacing Benitez, but sources within the club suggest that an appointment is imminent with the new man destined to be in place before the end of the month.

Hodgson has a contract to work for the BBC as pundit during the World Cup in South Africa, but he will be happy to break off from commentating to conclude any negotiations with the Anfield board, and will be in position to identify potential transfer targets.

Fulham want to keep their manager after he steered them to the UEFA Cup final in May, but Liverpool will not try to haggle and will meet the compensation figure in Hodgson's contract, meaning the London club will have no option but to allow him to leave.

The payment to Fulham will not prove too much of a barrier for Liverpool, not least because they are about to receive a similar level of compensation from Inter Milan for the Anfield backroom staff who are set to join Benitez in Italy.

He has negotiated to take several of his trusted lieutenants with him, including his Reds first team coach Mauricio Pellegrino, fitness coach Paco de Miguel and keeper coach Xavi Valero.

This story has been reproduced from today's media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club:

Author: Daily Mirror

[whitejc]

http://hammyend.com/?p=7237
More on Hodgson
by LYDIA on JUNE 9, 2010

There only seems to be 2 different people regarding the Liverpool job; Dalglish and Hodgson. A read this morning a newspaper that Roy will be approached on the next 48hours while the majority of sources think that Dalglish is ready to take over. Apparently he has stepped off the panel to choose a manager after putting his own name forward. Most Liverpool fans seem happy as well and, as it says in a comment below, the last time they won the league was with him in charge.

[whitejc]

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2896/premier-league/2010/06/09/1966280/fulham-on-the-verge-of-signing-standard-liege-striker?
Fulham on the verge of signing Standard Liege striker Dieumerci Mbokani for £8m - report

Fulham are believed to be close to an £8 million swoop for Standard Liege forward Dieumerci Mbokani.

The Cottagers held talks with the Belgian club in London over the possibility of signing the Congolese hitman, according to The Daily Mail.

The former Anderlecht player has in the past made it clear that if he were to make a move away from the Belgian heavyweights, it would be to a club in the Premier League or the Bundesliga.

Mbokani has also been linked with moves to West Ham United and Everton in the past, but it is now believed that he is Craven Cottage-bound.

[White Noise]

Great Expectations
 
Wednesday 9th June 2010


Fulham FC News Powered by 

With eight African Nations Cup final appearances and an impressive record on the youth international stage, many believe now is the time for Ghana to deliver – and on the greatest stage of all.

For, alongside Egypt (who lost a passionate World Cup play-off with Algeria), the country from the West is considered the main footballing force of the continent.

“We are one of Africa’s most successful countries so, naturally, there will be a lot of eyes on us,” believes Fulham favourite John Pantsil. “Ghana reached the final of the African Nations Cup in January, so hopefully that form and desire can drive us through in the World Cup too.”

Ghana were the first African country to qualify for South Africa 2010 and the only one to progress beyond the group stage of the 2006 World Cup, emerging from the so called ‘group of death’, finishing a point behind eventual champions Italy and ahead of the US and the Czech Republic in Group E.

A place in the last 16 then pitted them against five-time champions Brazil, a game in which Ronaldo scored a record 15th World Cup goal in a 3-0 triumph.

“This will be our second [World Cup] finals, which makes it a big moment for us,” he says. “In Germany we did very well, but this time our fans will expect even more, and I would love to give them something to celebrate.

“I think we learned a lot in Germany, which should stand us in good stead this time. We were perhaps a little naïve against the Brazilians, but the squad is four years older now. We’re wiser.

“A lot of the 2006 squad will be involved again, plus some very good young players that have shown a lot of promise. As they say, experience counts for a lot, and we have that now.

“When our strongest 11 takes to the field, for me, we are a match for any team. On our day we can beat the best.”

Having faced Clint Dempsey’s USA four years ago, in South Africa Pantsil will go head-to-head with another familiar face six days after their opening Group D game against Serbia – this time the giant form of Mark Schwarzer, with Ghana drawn in another testing group.

“It’s another difficult draw for us,” admits John. “Looking at what lies ahead, Group D is one of the toughest for sure, with ourselves, Serbia, Australia and one of the favourites, Germany.

“But we have to have courage and take from the fact that we overcame a similar challenge four years ago. We have confidence in our ability and fear no one.

“It will be strange coming up against Mark when Ghana and Australia meet in the second game. I’m used to helping him stop goals, rather than trying to put the ball past him.

“Would I like to score in that game? Of course, because you know you have done something special when you beat Mark Schwarzer – he’s one of the best goalkeepers in the world.”

JP was speaking exclusively to Fultime Magazine. To read the full interview and the rest of a World Cup special featuring Clint Dempsey, Mark Schwarzer, Dickson Etuhu, Kagisho Dikgacoi, George Cohen, Paul Parker and Ray Houghton, plus reflection on an unforgettable season at Fulham, see this summer’s publication, delivered to Season Ticket Holders and Members this week, or available from Club stores for just £3.50.


Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/June/pantsilWCpreview.aspx#ixzz0qLuGiHZg

[whitejc]

http://www.clickliverpool.com/sport/liverpool-fc/129417-kenny-dalglish-wants-to-be-new-liverpool-fc-manager-despite-roy-hodgson-approach.html?
Kenny Dalglish wants to be new Liverpool FC manager despite Hodgson approach

Liverpool are planning to approach Fulham's Roy Hodson despite Kenny Dalglish putting himself forward for the vacant manager's role.

The Kop legend has been involved in the selection process alongside managing director Christian Purslow since the departure of Rafael Benitez, who will be installed as Inter Milan's new manager later today, last week but now wants to be in the running for his old job.

Dalglish, 59, quit the Reds' dugout in February 1991 after spending 14 years at Anfield as both player and manager, before guiding Blackburn Rovers to the Premier League title in 1995 and is keen to become Benitez's interim replacement.

Despite the Scot's wishes, Hodgson still remains the firm favourite to be appointed and Liverpool chiefs will approach Fulham in the next 48 hours for permission to speak with the veteran coach.

Should the 62-year-old reject the offer to take the managerial reins Dalglish, Liverpool's youth ambassador, will be offered the role but is privately understood to be largely unimpressed with the candidates and feels that he may be better suited to steadying his crisis-hit former club.

[whitejc]

http://www.bettingpress.com/category/Football/Next-Liverpool-FC-manager--Jurgen-Klinsmann-to-be-new-Liverpool-FC-boss-201006090030/
Next Liverpool FC manager - Jurgen Klinsmann to be new Liverpool FC boss?

Ex-Spurs striker set to dive into Liverpool FC hotseat?

The main talking point aside from the World Cup is, who will be the next manager of Liverpool FC?

The Anfield club announced last week that Rafael Benitez would be leaving and bookmakers initially made Reds legend Kenny Dalglish as the favourite to take over.

But as the days and hours have passed Fulham manager Roy Hodgson and Aston Villa boss Martin O’Neill have now appeared as the bookies favourites, although Dalglish has since moved back into the favourites race.

One dark horse for the position though is former Germany striker and manager Jurgen Klinsmann. The German is 20/1 with Blue Square.

Klinsmann spent the majority of his career infuriating English football fans with his theatrical antics and awesome scoring ability, but when he joined Tottenham Hotspur for a brief spell he was the darling of the Premier League.

Klinsmann was linked with the Liverpool FC position once before when fans and board members were losing patience with Benitez, but that all came to nothing – so will the Reds be tempted to go back and offer him a contract?

Hodgson is the current favourite at 11/10, with O’Neill available at 5/1. King Kenny can be backed at 9/4

Next Liverpool manager odds at Blue Square:

Roy Hodgson – 11/10
Kenny Dalglish – 9/4
Martin O’Neill – 5/1
Sven-Goran Eriksson – 9/1
Mark Hughes – 20/1
Harry Redknapp – 20/1
Jurgen Klinsmann – 20/1
Guus Hiddink – 20/1
Frank Rijkaard – 20/1
Louis Van Gaal – 33/1
Didier Deschamps – 50/1
Others on request.