News:

Use a VPN to stream games Safely and Securely 🔒
A Virtual Private Network can also allow you to
watch games Not being broadcast in the UK For
more Information and how to Sign Up go to
https://go.nordvpn.net/SH4FE

Main Menu


Monday Fulham Stuff 09.08.10

Started by os5889, August 09, 2010, 08:57:23 AM

Previous topic - Next topic

os5889

http://www.premiershiptalk.com/2010/08/09/are-capellos-new-lions-good-enough-2/

Are Capello's new Lions good enough?
By Zain Alvi | 9th August 2010


It was almost like a fairytale unveiling of a fresh squad. Late Saturday evening, when the entire nation awaited Fabio Capello's announcement regarding a new-look England team, it truly felt as if the failure of the World Cup was a thing of the past.

After all, the build-up suggested that a new era is about to begin, even if the manager remains the same. Once the 23 names to face Hungary at Wembley on Wednesday were revealed, not many supporters of the underachieving England national team were complaining.

That much was only to be expected, though. An embattled England manager who almost lost his job this summer would obviously never name a squad that is only capable of generating hatred. So, the Three Lions as we know them today are, without a doubt, a decent bunch of lads.

Nevertheless, the question that was asked of them throughout this summer's doomed World Cup campaign in South Africa is surely to be brought up again. Are they good enough to deliver the goods at the highest level?

That is, even if they can improve on their past failures and at least overcome the likes of Algeria and Slovenia, will they ever be able to hold their own against a team as strong as the reigning European and World Champions Spain?

Not too long ago (two years, to be precise), Vicente Del Bosque's squad was also comprised of a host of household names who could not function together as a team. In essence, they were very comparable to their underperforming counterparts in England, if not worse.

In addition to putting domestic club rivalries behind, the Spaniards also had to strive to get a divided nation behind them as one. The whole process of uniting the various regions of the country began on the field as the star-studded roster began to function effectively as a unit.

Therefore, judging by Spain's sudden metamorphosis from long-standing underachievers to the undisputed leaders of world football suggests that as a first step towards glory, a national squad must earn the respect of their supporters and opponents alike.

For England, that means that the likes of Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard will have to link-up successfully, for a change. What that does not mean, however, is that the forwards are allowed to stand and wait for the service to arrive from the superstar midfield duo. Instead, everyone must hustle to create opportunities for themselves if they need to.

With that said, allow me to revisit the all-important question once again. Can the current England roster replicate the success of Spain and succeed at the highest level? In short, the answer to that question is a huge maybe. To reiterate, Capello has named a competitive squad. However, it must be pointed out that it is not without its share of loopholes.

Let's analyze the strength of each new Lion on an individual basis. It is only logical to begin with the goalkeepers, who have clearly played their part every time England falls short of expectations. David James and Robert Green are finally gone; Ben Foster and Joe Hart will now be at the helm of affairs between the sticks.

The promising young duo will be joined by Blackburn's Paul Robinson and it has to be acknowledged that Capello's staff has made the right selection here. It will be interesting to see which player eventually emerges as the number one once England (hopefully) qualify for Euro 2012.

Although the defense looks strong overall, one can't help but feel sorry for the exclusion of Liverpool's Jamie Carragher. The center-half was called out of retirement to travel to South Africa this summer and after being used sparingly, he ended up becoming a mysterious victim to Capello's axe.

The most obvious problem with omitting Carragher is the inclusion of Manchester United's Wes Brown. I have personally never been impressed with Brown because he is one of the most error-prone defenders in the Premier League.

In fact, forget about English football; Brown struggled to defend against MLS players as well and was eventually humiliated when Toronto's Dwayne DeRosario ran past him to score with utmost ease during the All-Star game less than two weeks ago.

While Carragher's experience has not been replaced by Capello, at least his skill-set won't be missed as much due to the worthy selection of Everton's Phil Jagielka and Bolton's Gary Cahill. Liverpool's Glen Johnson and Chelsea's Ashley Cole can rival any full-back duo in the world so one can only hope that they jell together, starting in two days' time against Hungary.

Cole's Blues teammate John Terry retains his place along with Tottenham's Michael Dawson, who controversially stays in the squad at the expense of West Ham skipper Matthew Upson. Arsenal will also be represented in England's defense now that young Kieran Gibbs has been called up.

The central midfield remains the same with the exception of 18-year old Jack Wilshere, who is also joined by Arsenal teammate Theo Walcott. Manchester City's Adam Johnson and Aston Villa's Ashley Young have also been given an opportunity to prove that they can make up for the pace that will be lost as a result of Liverpool's Joe Cole being left out.

The most significant improvement, though, has by far arrived in the forward department. Fulham's Bobby Zamora has received a highly deserved call-up while Sunderland's Darren Bent has also been rewarded (albeit late) for a stupendous display throughout last season.

West Ham's Carlton Cole will also get an opportunity to shine up front and as expected, Wayne Rooney will once again lead the attack. Capello definitely could have still done without getting rid of Jermain Defoe.

The Spurs striker scored to lead England to their only win in this summer's World Cup as soon as he was chosen over Emile Heskey but somehow, he finds himself out of the squad at the moment. Defoe must be feeling unlucky considering that Gareth Barry has been chosen in an already stacked midfield despite his poor showing in South Africa.

All said and done, the time to debate over the squad selection is now well past us. Starting with Wednesday, no external factors should be involved as England seek to sort out the mess that has been created in the aftermath of the World Cup.

If they want to be celebrating at the podium with the Euro 2012 title in less than two years, it is essential to take responsibility for each other and make a sincere attempt at playing like a team.

os5889

http://www.eatsleepsport.com/fulham/hodgson-geras-up-for-fulham-raid-1084816.html

Hodgson Gera's up for Fulham raid
Last Updated: Mon, 09 Aug 2010 14:13

Fulham star Zoltan Gera could be set for a shock exit out of Craven Cottage this summer with Liverpool keen on the midfielder.
The 31-year-old has just a year left on his Cottagers deal and has yet to begin negotiations over a new contract with his future now appearing to be up in the air.

Roy Hodgson's departure to Liverpool has prompted speculation he could return to raid his old club for the Hungary international while Sunderland and Blackburn are reportedly also monitoring the situation with a view to making bids.

Gera, who hit a stunning 12-minute hat-trick against Werder Bremen on Saturday in Fulham's final pre-season friendly before the new campaign, could be available at a knock-down £2million fee as he has just a year left on his current terms.

os5889

http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/standard-sport/football/article-23865073-simon-davies-puts-fulham-first-as-he-calls-time-on-wales.do

Simon Davies puts Fulham first as he calls time on Wales
09.08.10

Simon Davies has quit international football so he can concentrate on Fulham.

The 30-year-old has been troubled by a foot injury over the last 18 months and feared he would suffer more problems if he continued playing for club and country.

The news has come as a shock to Wales manager John Toshack, who had called up the midfielder for Wednesday's match against Luxembourg in Llanelli.

Wales begin their Euro 2012 qualifiers in Montenegro next month and Toshack spoke only on Friday of the importance of senior players such as Davies, Craig Bellamy and James Collins to him.

Meanwhile, Fulham defender Aaron Hughes is out of Northern Ireland's friendly in Montenegro on Wednesday with an inflamed Achilles


os5889

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11681_6302651,00.html

Gera attracting interest

Trio target Fulham star

Skysports.com understands a number of clubs are tracking Fulham ace Zoltan Gera.

Gera's future at Fulham could be in doubt following the arrival of new boss Mark Hugheswith the Welshman expected to bring in new faces to put his own stamp on the side.

The 31-year-old has just a year to run on his current contract and talks over a new deal have yet to take place as yet, alerting a number of clubs to his possible availability.

Liverpool could be in the market for Gera with Roy Hodgson a big fan of the Hungarian and his versatility would appeal to the new Reds boss.

Sunderland are also thought to be interested in Gera with Black Cats chief Steve Bruce keen to bolster his squad before the close of the transfer window.

German side Werder Bremen are also thought to be monitoring Gera's situation following his stunning 12-minute hat-trick against the German club in Saturday's pre-season friendly between the two sides.

os5889

http://www.joe.ie/football/premier-league/premier-league-preview-fulham-liverpool-manchester-city-and-manchester-united-004230-1

JOE continues its series of Premier League previews with a look at last year's runners-up Man Utd, as well as Man City, Liverpool and Fulham.

By Conor Hogan

Fulham

Last Season: 12th

Transfers in: Jonathan Greening (West Brom, free), Philippe Senderos (Arsenal, free)

Transfers out: Chris Smalling (Manchester United, £10m), Chris Buchtmann (Cologne, undisclosed), Erik Nevland (Viking, free), Wayne Brown (Bristol Rovers, free)

Overview: The ghost of Roy Hodgson will loom large at the Cottage for a long time. The man rescued Fulham from certain relegation before leading them to 7th in the league and a Europa League final in consecutive seasons.

The Fulham job could be looked upon as something of a poisoned chalice for even the best of managers. This is especially the case for new boss Mark Hughes, as he was clearly the second choice behind Ajax's Martin Jol.

Then again, Fulham fans are a realistic lot. Most of them can remember a time when their team was in danger of dropping out of the football league altogether. And that seasons like the last two are more likely to be exceptions rather than the norm.

Fulham have a decent if ageing squad, and aren't weak in any particular position. Hangeland and Hughes form a solid centre-half partnership in front of one of the league's best goalkeepers Mark Schwarzer (who they'll be hoping doesn't move to Arsenal).

Duff and Davies were exceptional playing on the wrong wing and cutting inside last season, while American Clint Dempsey, who can play on either wing or up-front, produced some moments of magic. Then there was Bobby Zamora, a man who scored five goals in all competitions in 2008-2009, yet found the net 21 times last season. A man who undoubtedly should've been named in the England World Cup squad.

Fulham is the kind of club that should suit Hughes more than Manchester City. Like Blackburn, who he managed to two top seven finishes, they are a smallish club where he'll have more freedom to mould the team in his image. With no European football for Fulham to worry about this term, they are likely to improve their league position.

One to watch: £10 million man Andy Johnson has been something of a forgotten man, after missing most of last season with a wounded knee. Fulham were reliant on his goals in 2007-2008 as Bobby Zamora wasn't particularly prolific. Now that Zamora has added goals to his game, the two could form a lethal combination as soon as Johnson returns from injury.

Fantasy football goldmine: Brede Hangeland - £5.5 million. Hangeland has garnered 263 points in the last two Fantasy Premier League seasons. The man is a bonus point machine.

JOE prediction: 9th

os5889

http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2010/aug/09/england-hungary-training-fabio-capello

Five England players miss first training session before Hungary game
• Bent, Johnson and Barry have treatment for 'minor' injuries
• Fabio Capello yet to replace Paul Robinson and Wes Brown
 
The England manager Fabio Capello saw only 16 of his players train this morning. Photograph: Michael Regan/Getty Images
Fabio Capello's new-look England squad were reduced to training with only 16 of the 23 players originally selected as the national side began preparations for Wednesday's friendly with Hungary at Wembley.

The squad was reduced by two yesterday, when Paul Robinson and Wes Brown announced their international retirements.

Those moves lent an air of chaos to the first game since England's dismal World Cup campaign. So far Capello has opted not to draft in any replacements, although it is anticipated he could bring in someone from Stuart Pearce's Under-21 squad should the need arise.

In addition to the permanent absentees, five more players were unable to play a full part in training. Chelsea's John Terry and Ashley Cole both went for warm-down sessions following yesterday's Community Shield and after forming part of the initial group meeting. In addition, Darren Bent (back), Glen Johnson and Gareth Barry (both ankle) also went for treatment on what have been classed as "minor" injuries.

Happily for Capello it is not anticipated that any of the quintet will miss out and all are expected to train tomorrow.

The remaining members of the session included all three players who have been called up for the first time. Fulham's Bobby Zamora will be hopeful of playing some part on Wednesday, having caught Capello's eye prior to the World Cup but then missing out due to a hamstring injury.

Both Jack Wilshere and Kieran Gibbs took part, too. The young Arsenal players are viewed as two of England's most talented prospects and will at the very least benefit from the exposure they will gain and quite possibly make first senior appearances at the same time.


os5889

http://www.sport.co.uk/news/Football/41916/Given_will_quit_Eastlands_if_he_is_not_number_1.aspx

Given will quit Eastlands if he is not number 1
Author:  Nigel Brown

Manchester City goalkeeper Shay Given has revealed that he will seek the exit door at the Eastland's stadium if Joe Hart is made the number 1, putting pressure on manager Roberto Mancini to make a decision on his first-choice alerting Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger.

The 34-year-old Republic of Ireland international has revealed he does not want to sit on the bench at this stage in his career and will look to leave the City of Manchester if England hopeful Joe Hart is picked ahead of him. The report by the Daily Mail says whoever Mancini picks for the Premier League opener against Spurs will force the other goalkeeper to quit the Eastlands stadium.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has been linked with loan moves over the weekend for both Joe Hart and Shay Given, while Arsene Wenger is also looking to solve his goalkeeping crisis by looking to sign Fulham's Mark Schwarzer. However Fulham manager Mark Hughes is reluctant to grant the big Australian's dream move to the Gunner's.

Given revealed: "I think we are both at a stage where we need to be playing football," he said.

"If I don't start then I will sit down with the club next week and see where my future lies, and maybe it will be vice-versa with Joe. We both feel that we need to be playing. I'm at a stage where I need to be playing, I'm 34 and I haven't got millions of years left to play football.

"Hopefully I will play on Saturday, but whatever decision the manager makes I will respect that and then sit down with the club next week."
Given did admit that he may have to look at a loan move:

"Ideally I would like to stay at the club because it's a big club and an ambitious club, with fantastic owners and I want to be part of that, that's why I joined in the first place.

"Possibly, if I didn't start, then there could be a loan and then I'd come back and see where that takes me."

"The manager will decide who he wants to start with on Saturday and you would imagine that will be who he wants to play in most of the games this season," he said.

"Joe's a top keeper as well so it's inevitable that there will be speculation about who will start on Saturday, that's part and parcel of being at a big club because there are so many great players there. It's not just my position, there are 10 other positions where people aren't sure who is going to play."

os5889

http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/09082010/63/given-won-t-settle-city-second-line.html

Given won't settle for being City's second in line

Shay Given is to discuss his future with Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini next week if he finds himself on the bench on Saturday.
City's other stopper, Joe Hart, was outstanding during a season-long loan at Birmingham last season, to such an extent that Mancini has refused to allow the 23 -year-old to join another club on a similar basis.
That has opened the debate as to whether Hart or Given will receive the nod from Mancini for Saturday's Barclays Premier League curtain-raiser against Tottenham at White Hart Lane.
At the age of 34, Given knows his career for both club and country are on the line and that he has to be playing first-team football with one to further his longevity with the other.
"We will have to wait until lunchtime on Saturday when the manager picks the team to see who starts in goal," said Given, who has been linked with Arsenal and Fulham of late due to the uncertainty. Obviously I hope to start, but it's inevitable there is going to be speculation because I know Joe is also a top `keeper.
"The manager will decide, and whoever he starts with you would feel that is who he would mostly want to play in the big games. If I don't start then I'll sit down with the club next week and see where my future lies, and maybe vice-versa with Joe, because we will both feel we should be playing."

os5889

http://football.fanhouse.co.uk/2010/08/09/fulham-season-preview-mark-hughes-has-a-tough-act-to-follow-at/

Fulham Season Preview: Mark Hughes Has a Tough Act to Follow at Cottage
Ian Winrow

It tells you everything you need to know about Fulham's unforgettable 12 months that, when Mark Hughes was finally pronounced as Roy Hodgson's successor, the appointment of the former Manchester City manager was greeted with a degree of disappointment among some of the club's supporters.

Last season's spectacular, Hodgson-inspired, overachievement that culminated in an appearance in the Europa League final delivered unprecedented success to a club more accustomed to making up the numbers and generated a level of expectation previously unknown at Craven Cottage.

The last thing Fulham need, however, is to lose sight of the qualities of modesty and hard work that Hodgson harnessed to such effect.

So the decision to bring in Hughes – a manager who revelled in the role of underdog with Wales and Blackburn – appears to be a wise one.

THE NEW (AND OLD) MEN:
Ins: Philippe Senderos (Arsenal) free, Jonathan Greening (West Brom) free.
Outs: Chris Smalling (Manchester United) £10m; Wayne Brown (Bristol Rovers) free; Christopher Buchtmann (Cologne) free; Elliott Omozusi (Leyton Orient) free.

Summary: The impasse caused by the failed attempt to lure former Tottenham manager Martin Jol from Ajax meant any meaningful transfer activity was put on hold this summer and Hughes will be anxious to strengthen a squad that is short on numbers. Manchester City strikers Craig Bellamy and Roque Santa Cruz are two likely targets but the new manager will also want to add strength to the central midfield and full back areas. Expect a hectic three weeks before the transfer window finally closes.

THE MAIN MEN:
World Cup factor: Dickson Etuhu has unexpectedly emerged as an effective Premier League midfielder and his experience with Nigeria in South Africa can only benefit a player who provided backbone to last year's team. Clint Dempsey's World Cup peaked when Robert Green allowed the USA striker's shot to dribble into the goal in England's opening group game while goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer enjoyed a steady, if unspectacular, tournament with Australia.

Goalkeepers: Schwarzer remains a target for Arsenal and if he goes, Hughes will have to move quickly with Hull City's Boaz Myhill currently heading the list of potential replacements. The high grade for this area assumes that Schwarzer is staying. A-

Defence: Hodgson's side was impressively drilled and the defence operated well as a unit. If Hughes can maintain those standards, the back four will once again provide a formidable foundation. B+

Midfield: The combination of Etuhu's athleticism and Danny Murphy's intelligent passing game held the team together last season. while Damien Duff and Simon Davies provided excellent service from the wings. The back-up players look less impressive, however, and a couple of untimely injuries would leave Fulham severely depleted in this area. B-

Attack: Many people are still scratching their heads trying to work out just what happened to Bobby Zamora last season. Whatever the answer, the striker goes into this campaign regarded as one of the Premier League's most effective forwards, supported by the fast improving Zoltan Gera. B+

The Boss: Hughes will find Craven Cottage a much more tolerant place than Eastlands where he was sacked after failing to deliver immediate success. That tolerance will only extend so far, though, and he must make an early impact to draw a line under the Hodgson era. B

THE GAMES:
Start With: Bolton away, August 14: The old Fulham would have conceded the points before they had even boarded the coach, but these days the trip should deliver at least one point.

End With: Arsenal home, May 22: Not the kind of game you would want if there was anything still at stake.

The Big One In Between: Liverpool away, December 18: If things go to plan, this could be an important game in the battle to finish in the top seven. More importantly, it is the first opportunity for Fulham to put one over Hodgson.

THE FANS:
Most Likely to Say: "Isn't it about time you washed that Europa League final T-shirt?"

Least Likely to Say: "Roy who?"

Expectation rating: ****. No matter how many times Fulham supporters tell themselves they are keeping things in perspective, anything less than a top seven challenge will be regarded as a disappointment.

Reality check: *** There's no reason why Hughes cannot engineer a top 10 finish, but a return trip to Europe? Unlikely.

It's a good season if: Without a gruelling Europa League campaign to contend with, focus will remain on the league and Hughes will be satisfied if his side finish in the top half having claimed a few major scalps along the way. A decent FA Cup run wouldn't go amiss either.

THE NUMBERS:
Title odds: 1000/1
Relegation odds: 7/1
FanHouse UK prediction: 10th

Last season's form
League: 12th
FA Cup: Quarter-final
League Cup: Round 3
Top League Scorers: Bobby Zamora 8, Clint Dempsey 7, Damien Duff 6
Discipline: Yellow 46, Red 1


os5889

http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2010/aug/09/the-season-preview-fulham

The season preview: Fulham
Can Mark Hughes build on Roy Hodgson's admirable achievements at Fulham?
 
Unofficial motto

Summus tuguribus quaestus

(The ultimate Cottage industry). The continued ability of this relatively small club to compete with the big boys is all about good management, some inspired appointments (and dismissals) and down-to-earth hard graft. Well, that and a few bob off the chairman. Mark Hughes will be looking to carry on the good work after being out of management for more than six months and shouldn't be short of motivation.

The age of austerity

With the club about £170m in debt, there's a reason why Mohamed Al Fayed gets such a rousing reception when he takes to the Craven Cottage turf. If he goes – it is reported the 77-year-old tycoon wants to sell up after offloading his little corner shop in Knightsbridge – they're in trouble.

What they want

They may have lost their Roy Hodgson, but they haven't lost their taste for glory. There'll be no European football this time, but a top-10 finish would be good. The fans are not known for their unrealistic ambitions.

What they get

Only 12th last time, but then they made up for that by pasting Juventus, among others, on their way to that Europa League final. Not since the Beatles has anyone had a more memorable trip to Hamburg. But by the end of the season, that grand tour could seem like a very distant memory.

The players

Coalition or opposition?

No wonder it didn't take long for the scouts to start sniffing around Chris Smalling – youngsters in Fulham's first team are rarer than members of the official BP fan club (United States branch). In recent years this has been the rehabilitation centre of choice for no-longer-as-highly-rated-as-they-once-were pros to prove their best days are not all behind them.

Yoof of today

Aged 16 years and 65 days Matthew Briggs became the youngest player in Premier League history. That was three years ago and he's still waiting for his second game, but the defender remains highly rated and spent the summer with England's Under-19 squad.

Mr Fulham

Nobody has been at Fulham longer than Clint Dempsey, and it's just as well he agreed a contract extension last summer as after the World Cup, and that "unstoppable" World Cup wonder goal against England, his stock has never been higher. "You never know in football, it's so crazy, but I don't need to move," he said last year. "I'm a more complete player than I was when I first arrived. I owe them a lot."

Who should have his benefits cut?

No wonder Fulham are in so much debt – they get nothing back from their players in fines. The closest they've got to a born hell-raiser is a Bjorn Helge Riise. Geddit?

Everybody loves...

While Bobby Zamora became the face of Fulham's fantastic fortunes last time out the Hungarian Zoltan Gera provided the brains, and the fans duly voted him player of the season. "Popularity is important, of course," he says, "but the team cannot survive on that."

The manager

Life and times

His former Manchester United team-mate Paul Ince declared himself "astonished" that Hughes – real first name Leslie – ever moved into the dugout. "The cleverest manager I played for," said Gary Speed, though not so clever when it came to spending Manchester City's fortune.

Master tactician or lucky general?

Thrived with Wales and Blackburn, where Craig Bellamy starred and players without great egos bought into his fitness-based dynamic football. Failed at City, where Bellamy starred but the only thing the rest of the squad bought into were mansions in Alderley Edge.

Regrets... he's had a few

Talking of which, Sparky fell out with Michael Carrick in 2008 when the Manchester United midfielder, who lived next to Hughes in Prestbury at the time, applied for planning permission to increase the height of his house. Hughes vehemently opposed the idea, but the council ruled that as another property nearby had been transformed from a bungalow into a multi-storey palace a precedent had clearly been set. No need to ask who owned that one...

os5889

http://www.google.com/hostednews/ukpress/article/ALeqM5jt49FgWrwGdKIvN9mIBWjwszxmDg

Given won't be City understudy
(UKPA) – 12 minutes ago
Shay Given is to discuss his future with Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini next week if he finds himself on the bench on Saturday.
Joe Hart has not been allowed to go back out on loan this season following his outstanding campaign on loan at Birmingham last term, opening the debate as to whether he or Given will receive the nod from Mancini for Saturday's Barclays Premier League curtain-raiser against Tottenham at White Hart Lane.
"We will have to wait until lunchtime on Saturday when the manager picks the team to see who starts in goal," said Given, who has been linked with Arsenal and Fulham of late due to the uncertainty. "Obviously I hope to start, but it's inevitable there is going to be speculation because I know Joe is also a top 'keeper."
He added: "The manager will decide, and whoever he starts with you would feel that is who he would mostly want to play in the big games.
"If I don't start then I'll sit down with the club next week and see where my future lies, and maybe vice-versa with Joe, because we will both feel we should be playing.
"Ideally I'd like to stay at the club because it's a big club to be at, a very ambitious club with fantastic owners.
"I want to be part of it, which is why I joined in the first place.
"If I don't start I guess it's an advantage the transfer window will still be open.
"Maybe I'll go out on loan, come back and see where that takes me.
"But I know I'm at a stage where I need to be playing. I'm 34, and I've not got millions of years left."

os5889

http://www.wba.co.uk/page/News/0,,10366~2115310,00.html

Shorey completes Albion move
Posted on: Mon 09 Aug 2010
ROBERTO Di Matteo has boosted his defensive options by signing former England full-back Nicky Shorey for an undisclosed fee.

The 29-year-old left-back has made the short move from Villa after passing a medical and penning a two-year contract, plus a further year's option in the club's favour.

Di Matteo now has plenty of competition at left-back, with Slovakian international Marek Cech and former England Under-21 defender Joe Mattock already on board.

Shorey has become Albion's fifth summer signing, following in the footsteps of Pablo Ibanez, Steven Reid, Boaz Myhill and Gabriel Tamas.

"I'm delighted to welcome Nicky to the club," said the head coach.

"He's an experienced, solid, reliable left-back who likes to get forward and get involved.

"I also like the fact he's English and knows what the Premier League is all about.


os5889

http://www.ealinggazette.co.uk/sport/football-ealing/2010/08/09/fulham-look-set-to-miss-out-on-manchester-city-frontman-64767-27028405/

Fulham look set to miss out on Manchester City frontman
Aug 9 2010 By Jacob Murtagh

MARK Hughes has played down speculation linking him with a move for Manchester City frontman Roque Santa Cruz.
The Fulham boss is in the market for a new striker, but has already ruled out a swoop for Santa Cruz's Eastlands team-mate Craig Bellamy.
But he insists a move for the Paraguay international is also unlikely because he can't afford his wages.
He said: "People are making assumptions because I've worked with him before.

"I like him as a player, that's been clear because of the number of times I purchased him.

"I think there's a lot of players at Manchester City that are at a level of finance which makes it difficult for a lot of teams to allow the player to make a decision to come to a certain club.
"There may be other opportunities we may try and pursue instead of that one."

os5889

Season Ticket Cards
Monday 9th August 2010

The Club would like to inform all 2010/11 Season Ticket Holders that new Access Cards are scheduled to arrive on your doorsteps by the end of this week.

If you haven't yet purchased your Season Ticket, there's still time to do so before our home opener against Manchester United at the Cottage on Sunday 22nd August (Kick-Off 4pm).

A 2010/11 Season Ticket is the ONLY way to secure your place at all 19 Barclays Premier League home matches, including Manchester United.

Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/August/SeasonTicketcards.aspx#ixzz0w7mZyv2q

os5889

Hat-trick Hero
Monday 9th August 2010

Zoltan Gera certainly made an impact in Saturday's pre-season friendly against Werder Bremen at Craven Cottage. The Hungarian international replaced Clint Dempsey just after the hour mark and proceeded to net a rapid-fire hat-trick before setting up Eddie Johnson for Fulham's fifth and final goal of the afternoon.

"I'm very happy because we played very well in the second-half," said Gera as he looked back on the game. "The tempo was a bit higher in the second-half and everyone moved the ball early. It's always good to score goals, especially when it's three goals against a very good quality team like Werder Bremen.

"Sometimes you need luck - the first goal was unstoppable, sometimes that happens. The second was a good cross from Bobby and for the third I was in the right place at the right time. I'm happy scoring goals and I want to keep scoring in the Premier League."

Zoltan remained hopeful that his three-goal salvo would be enough to convince Mark Hughes to give his a place in the starting line-up next weekend as Fulham face Bolton at the Reebok Stadium.

"I would like to play but the Manager will tell me whether I will play or not," he said. "The squad is very strong and we have many good players so it will be difficult to get into the team – but hopefully I will start."

Of course, before the Barclays Premier League season gets underway Zoltan could be potentially lining-up against Fulham team-mate Bobby Zamora when Hungary take on England at Wembley Stadium on Wednesday evening.

"England is still a very good team so it's going to be a difficult night for us but I think it's a good opportunity for us playing at Wembley against England," Gera explained. "We have a new manager of the national team, it's going to be a good new squad with young players so it's up to us. I said to Bobby 'I'll see you on Wednesday' and hopefully he will play.

"I think he had a fantastic season last season, he's a quality player and I wish him all the best if he plays for the national team."


Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/August/GeraHat-trickHero.aspx#ixzz0w7minH7t


os5889

Dermologica Clean Start
Monday 9th August 2010

Aspire 2 Move is a project delivered by Fulham Football Club Foundation, across the boroughs of Kingston, Merton and Hammersmith and Fulham that aims to engage young women between the ages of 12 and 21 in positive activities.

Over the summer the A2M programme will be running a number of Girls Nights in association with Dermologica Clean Start where members of the Clean Start teams will be giving an interactive workshop about skin and how to keep it healthy!

All young women aged 12-21 are invited to attend.

Tuesday 10th August 6-8pm
The Brunswick Club, Fulham SW5 7EU

Wednesday 18th August 6-8pm
Piper Hall, Kingston, KT1 3EX

Thursday 19th August 6-8pm
Kingsnympton Community Centre, KT2 7XZ

Thursday 19th August 6-8pm
Tolworth Junior School Hall, KT6 7SA

Wednesday 25th August 6-8pm
Chessington Community College, Kingston, KT9 2JS

Thursday 26th August 6-8pm
Pollards Hill Youth Centre, Merton, CR4 1LT

For more information please contact Jen Emeny on 020 8336 7587 or email [email protected]

Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/August/Dermalogia.aspx#ixzz0w7myS5R9

os5889

http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2010/08/09/fulham-boss-plays-down-roque-santa-cruz-rumours-82029-27028228/

Fulham boss plays down Roque Santa Cruz rumours
Aug 9 2010 By Jacob Murtagh

MARK Hughes has played down speculation linking him with a move for Manchester City frontman Roque Santa Cruz.

The Fulham boss is in the market for a new striker, but has already ruled out a swoop for Santa Cruz's Eastlands team-mate Craig Bellamy.

But he insists a move for the Paraguay international is also unlikely because he can't afford his wages.

He said: "People are making assumptions because I've worked with him before.

"I like him as a player, that's been clear because of the number of times I purchased him.

"I think there's a lot of players at Manchester City that are at a level of finance which makes it difficult for a lot of teams to allow the player to make a decision to come to a certain club.

"There may be other opportunities we may try and pursue instead of that one."

os5889

http://www.facebook.com/#!/video/video.php?v=1322484352056

An exclusive look behind the scenes at our Kappa Kit Shoot.


Lighthouse

Over the summer the A2M programme will be running a number of Girls Nights in association with Dermologica Clean Start where members of the Clean Start teams will be giving an interactive workshop about skin and how to keep it healthy!



PLEASE TELL ME I AM NOT THE ONLY ONE WHO SNIGGERED AT THIS.  :011:
The above IS NOT A LEGAL DOCUMENT. It is an opinion.

We may yet hear the horse talk.

I can stand my own despair but not others hope

os5889

http://www.liveoddsandscores.com/news/sports/4212213/premier-league-transfer-market-betting-odds-bellamy-cut-to-join-spurs

Premier League transfer market betting odds – Bellamy cut to join Spurs
Posted in English Premiership, Soccer, Sports on August 9, 2010 @ 4:42 pm by Matt Knowles

Craig Bellamy's odds of joining Spurs have been cut to 2/1 (bet £10 to win £20 profit) with Sky Bet as Manchester City desperately look to offload players following the new Premier League rule that forces clubs to name a squad of 25 players for the coming season. City's hoarding of expensive talent means that if they cannot sell those deemed surplus to requirements they will be paying wages to players who cannot even be named as substitutes come match-day.

Sky Bet have made Celtic the most likely destination for the former Liverpool striker, offering 6/4, while he is 7/4 to rejoin fellow Welshman Mark Hughes, who brought him to City, at Fulham. Newcastle and Villa may both be interested as well, with both available at 14/1.

Another player who looks as if he might leave Eastlands is the extremely talented but hard-to-manage Robinho. The Brazilian showed at the World Cup why City paid Real Madrid more than £30 million for his services but he spent last season on loan at Santos after struggling to settle in England. Remarkably, Sky Bet have made Turkish club Besiktas the most likely destination at 2/1. He may prefer the more prestigious Inter Milan, who would be in a better position to fulfil his wage demands, and the Treble-winners are 5/2 to land the forward, with Benfica priced at 11/2.

Inter are almost certain to land Liverpool holding midfielder Javier Mascherano, who has expressed his desire to join up with former manager Rafa Benitez in Milan. Sky Bet offer only 1/12 that he gets his wish, while Spanish giants Barcelona and Real Madrid are 14/1 and 20/1 respectively. Liverpool will try to replace some of the lost defensive metal of Mascherano by signing Fulham defender Brede Hangeland and Roy Hodgson is 4/5 with Sky Bet to get his man. Arsenal are waiting in the wings, however, at 3/1 to hijack the move.

Other potential signings of note include Mesut Ozil, who has been slashed from 5/1 to 8/11 this afternoon to join Barcelona, having been odds-on at 1/3 to join Manchester United. He is now evens to move to Old Trafford and 7/2 to move to Real Madrid.