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


Tuesday Fulham Stuff 09.08.10

Started by os5889, August 09, 2010, 11:39:31 PM

Previous topic - Next topic

os5889

Mart Walks After Transfer Row

MARTIN O'NEILL quit Aston Villa last night, after Brad Friedel became the latest big name to head for the exit door.
Croatian boss Slaven Bilic is the top tip to replace him, along with USA World Cup chief Bob Bradley.
O'Neill was already frustrated by the imminent sale of James Milner to Manchester City.
He was willing to accept that only if he could spend the fee on new quality players.
But cash-strapped owner Randy Lerner insisted it must help balance the books.
Fearing Ashley Young would be sold too, O'Neill was close to calling it quits.
He finally snapped yesterday, though, when keeper Friedel announced he wanted to join Fulham.
An insider said: "That was the final straw for Martin.
"He'd worked so hard to get a top-six place and reach Wembley.
"Now his side was being allowed to disintegrate before his eyes.
"He was left with no alternative but to call it a day after four successful years in charge."
Relations between 58-year-old Irishman O'Neill and American Lerner were amicable until last January. Then they fell out over the club's transfer kitty.
They were talking again this summer but things blew up yesterday, after a meeting with Lerner's right-hand man Paul Faulkner.
O'Neill was told he would not have as much to spend as he wanted, even after the Milner sale to City later this week which could see Stephen Ireland join Villa plus a cash adjustment of up to £18m.
He was also ordered to raise money by selling Steve Sidwell, Luke Young, Curtis Davies, Habib Beye, Nicky Shorey and Nigel Reo-Coker.


Read more: http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/3088539/Why-Martin-ONeill-quit-Aston-Villa.html#ixzz0wBstE0rO

White Noise


Fulham line up triple



Published: Today

Add a comment (1)

   
FULHAM boss Mark Hughes has made moves for veterans Eidur Gudjohnsen and Mikael Silvestre.
Gudjohnsen, 31, is close to joining on a year's loan from Monaco.

Arsenal released Silvestre, 32, in the summer.




--------------------------------------------------------------------------------




ALGERIA defender Rafik Halliche will have a medical at Fulham tomorrow before sealing a £2.5million switch from Benfica.

Halliche, who shone during the World Cup, said: "A move to England is simply sensational."


Read more: http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/3088455/Fulham-want-Mikael-Silvestre-Eidur-Gudjohnsen-and-Rafik-Halliche.html#ixzz0wBtZqNI5

os5889

http://www.stuff.co.nz/nelson-mail/blogs/blog-the-reich-stuff/4008623/Here-we-go

Here we go
By JOSH REICH

With the World Cup but a distant memory, attention turns to the start of the Premier League this weekend.

England's disastrous showing and a lack of big money/ big name transfers mean the season has somewhat snuck up on many people.

In fact one of the biggest stories just broke this week, with the dancing Irishman Martin O'Neill, seemingly fed-up with his backer's lack of ambition, walking out on Aston Villa.



That, and the probable loss of James Milner, should guarantee their recent top-six finishes are a distant memory come the end of the season.

The title should be another two horse race between Chelsea and Manchester United.

United's season may hinge somewhat on whether Wayne Rooney can spark into action.

Like most of the English team, he was dreadful in South Africa, and it remains to been seen whether he has had enough time off to get over his niggles.

Chelsea had their own share of world cup flops, but once again have an impressive line-up and will be tough to beat.

It may be a season to early for Manchester City to make a significant tilt for the title, despite more spending, and they should be fighting it out with Arsenal and Liverpool (who have finally got rid of Rafa Benitez) for the Champions League spots.

As much as it pains me, a second fourth place finish is probably beyond Spurs, especially if they make the final cut for the Champions League and have frequent mid-week matches with an injury-prone squad.

Three New Zealanders will be plying their trade in the top flight which is fantastic for the sport in this country, and should guarantee even more coverage in mainstream media.

Unfortunately for them, none will be playing for anything other that mid-table obscurity (Blackburn and West Ham), and to avoid relegation (West Brom).

Others in the relegation dog fight will be Wigan, Blackpool, Stoke and Wolves.

As entertaining as their relegation was in 2009, I think Newcastle can do enough to make their foray into the Championship a one-off.

I'd love to see Fulham continue their improvement, and Birmingham establish themselves after a promising return to the Premiership last season.

My Picks:-

Title: Chelsea
Champions league spots: Manchester United, Arsenal, Manchester City
Relegated: Wigan, Blackpool, West Brom.
Golden boot: Didier Drogba
FA Cup: Chelsea
Carling Cup: Spurs


os5889

http://www.walesonline.co.uk/footballnation/football-in-wales/2010/08/10/davies-quit-decision-robs-wales-youngsters-says-toshack-91466-27030057/

Wales Football

Davies' quit decision 'robs Wales youngsters'

JOHN TOSHACK feels Wales' youngsters are being robbed of their helping hands after Simon Davies became the latest player to retire from international football.

Fulham ace Davies informed Toshack of his decision to quit the Wales set-up late on Sunday night, the 30-year-old citing fitness reasons for calling time on a 58-cap career.

The midfielder, who captained his country just last year, takes the total retirements under Toshack to 20 in the space of six years.

And although the Wales manager says he accepts Davies' decision, he insists the young players being left behind are the ones that will suffer.


"This is not something that's new to us – it's something we've had to learn to deal with over the years," said Toshack, speaking at the team hotel ahead of tomorrow's friendly with Luxembourg in Llanelli.

"In Simon's case, he felt that with his physical condition and the problems he's had with injuries that the time players get off during international breaks would be better used looking after his own fitness.

"So you just have to accept it, say thank you for the service he's given and wish him all the best. And he has been a good servant; he was in a group with Jason Koumas, Danny Gabbidon and Craig Bellamy in Mark Hughes' side whose youthful enthusiasm helped the more experienced players like Ryan Giggs and Gary Speed.

"It's just from our point of view it's unfortunate that we now haven't got experienced players of our own to help the younger players coming through."

Davies, one of just a handful of players with Premier League experience available to Wales, had been criticised by Toshack during the previous World Cup qualifying campaign – the veteran manager insisting he needed more from one of his senior stars.

Best remembered for his stunning goal in the Millennium Stadium win over Italy in 2002, Davies himself admitted injury had hampered his impact at the highest stage.

But excellent form for Fulham following his recovery from an ongoing foot problem had seen Davies earn a recall to the set-up, featuring in March's friendly defeat to Sweden.

Although he had slipped down the pecking order, Toshack was keen for Davies to guide the likes of Aaron Ramsey, Jack Collison, Joe Ledley and David Edwards through the European qualifying campaign.

His availability was even more crucial given the long-term injuries that rule both Ramsey and Collison out of the first three fixtures in Group G, starting in Montenegro on September 3.

And although Toshack held back from criticising Davies, who he accepted would benefit from the extra time to manage his foot injury, he would not have been happy with the timing of the decision.

"The loss of Aaron and Jack is a big thing for us – the squad is hurting from it as much as the supporters are," said Toshack, who has called up Swansea City's David Cotterill to replace Davies for the Luxembourg game.

"It's difficult because, alongside David Edwards and Joe Ledley, that is a midfield we have a lot of hope for.

"But right across the middle of the park we are having great difficulty getting any continuity. We have got to look forward and hope the midfield issues can clear themselves up because the four lads are very young.

"We just have to hope for a bit more fortune.

"But the decision has been made now and, if it prolongs Simon's career and it's in his best interests, we wish him well and accept it."

A former Peterborough trainee who went onto break into the top flight at Tottenham Hotspur before big money moves to Everton and Fulham, Davies made his debut against Ukraine in 2001 under Mark Hughes.

He was an instrumental figure during the Euro 2004 qualifying campaign under Hughes, scoring in the opening 2-0 victory away to Finland.

But it was the first of his six goals for Wales that stood out, a mesmeric winding run and shot in a 1-1 draw in Croatia in August 2002.

Davies had brought question marks over his international future last year when he admitted the demands of the Premier League and his issues with injuries were taking their toll.

os5889



Saw this on my travels... Not sure where else to put it

os5889

http://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/sport/localsport/8322191.Striker_Hayles_linked_with_move_to_Terras/

Striker Hayles linked with move to Terras
9:41am Tuesday 10th August 2010

WEYMOUTH boss Ian Hutchinson is hopeful of securing the services of a high-calibre striker before this Saturday's opener against Halesowen Town in the Zamaretto Premier Division.

And Echosport understands the frontman the Terras have been tracking is ex-Premier League ace Barry Hayles, who was released by Cheltenham Town at the end of last season.

The 38-year-old, who has also played for the likes of Fulham, Leicester City and Plymouth Argyle, would be a valuable addition to Hutchinson's young squad, which is also expected to be boosted by the signing of Cameron Mawer after he turned out in Saturday's 3-1 defeat against Dorchester Town. Understandably, Hutchinson refused to reveal the identity of the striker he is targeting but did say he hopes to add at least three new signings to his squad ahead of the big kick-off.

He said: "We have been in talks with a striker for a while but that is all I can say on that.

"I am hoping to have three new faces in by Saturday but it is not easy with the budget we have.

"We are continuing to work overtime, along with the board and the chairman, and hopefully we will have some more news soon."

Mawer was used as a second-half substitute against the Magpies and if he signs it will mark the start of a third spell at the club.

Hutchinson said: "I am hoping to get Cameron down here. He has played here before, he knows the area and he is liked by the supporters.

"He also has a great attitude and always gives 110 per cent. And the fact he is versatile, and can play at the back or in midfield, means he will help add that bit of steel which we have been looking for."

* PASSION, commitment and desire are the three key words that will no doubt be ringing in the ears of the Weymouth squad this week.

They are the components that Terras' boss Ian Hutchinson wants instilled in all his players as they prepare to embark on the tough task of overhauling a 10-point deficit and securing survival in the Zamaretto Premier League.

Hutchinson's ranks is still alarmingly thin on the ground in terms of experienced heads but the steel his young side showed in the opening hour of Saturday's friendly defeat against Dorchester Town did prove the current crop are capable of mixing it when the going gets touch.

That would have no doubt buoyed the Terras' management staff, but they are certainly under no illusions about the scale of the challenge that lies ahead.

He said: "This summer has seen a fresh start for us. A lot of new faces and local lads have come in, and have been given the chance to have a go.

"Performances have been up and down but we have slowly blended a young side together and they are all now very aware of what is expected of them, and that 100 per cent passion, commitment and desire.

"We know we still need to add a few experienced heads and over this week we will be endeavouring to do that. The budget is tight and there is not a lot left so we all we can do is try and work that the best we can.

"We knew it was going to be tough when we came back to the club but we just have to get on with it, and the aim now is to have some good training sessions this week in preparation for Saturday's opener at Halesowen, which is a tough start for us.

"We always knew that things would not happen overnight and it would all be about progression over the season but with the 10-point deduction we have, we also know how much it would help our cause it if we could get some points on the board early.

"However, a season is over 42 games, and as long as we are outside that relegation zone by the end of it, we will be happy.

"Survival is the key. If we can achieve that, we will then be able to push on the following season."


Tom

Quote from: os5889 on August 10, 2010, 10:02:55 AM


Saw this on my travels... Not sure where else to put it
Now seeing this gets me excited! Did you take the picture yourself os5889?
Fulham for life!

LBNo11

Quote from: os5889 on August 10, 2010, 10:02:55 AM


Saw this on my travels... Not sure where else to put it

...Hmmm, a severe overdose of Photoshop by the look of things, recent new sponsor logo, but no leaves on the trees and the pitch is looking well used - "an artists impression" of what is to come more like...
Twitter: @LBNo11FFC

os5889

http://www.clubcall.com/liverpool/agent-fuels-midfielder-transfer-talk-1085021.html

Zoltan Gera's agent has revealed the Hungary international would be interested in working with Roy Hodgson again.

The attacking midfielder is believed to be attracting the interest of Liverpool and Sunderland, along with German side Werder Bremen, having enjoyed a highly successful season at Craven Cottage.
Former Cottagers boss Roy Hodgson is thought to be keen on bringing Gera to Liverpool, while Werder were highly impressed by the 31-year-old after he scored a hat trick against them in pre-season.
Gera's representative Vladan Filipovic has hinted that his client could link up with Hodgson at Anfield, while also suggesting the player is open to offers.
"At the moment I don't want to comment on the news, but there is always a chance for a club change when a player has enjoyed such a great season, like Gera did," Filipovic told www.origo.hu.
"Mr Hodgson liked him very much at Fulham and that belief could be seen in Gera's performances, he played some great football.


os5889

http://www.sport.co.uk/news/Football/41936/ONeill_debacle_moves_Schwarzer_closer_to_exit.aspx

O'Neill debacle moves Schwarzer closer to exit

Mark Schwarzer has moved closer to a move to Arsenal after Aston Villa goalkeeper Brad Friedel admitted that he would like to join the Lilywhites in the summer transfer window.

The news was a contributing factor in the resignation of O'Neill with Arsenal set to make a new offer for the big Aussie in the hope of clinching the 37-year-old's signature this week.

Arsene Wenger has tracked Mark Schwarzer since the beginning of the summer and is the Frenchman's first choice recruit with the Gunner's boss looking to sign a senior stopper at the club. The Arsenal manager has been linked recently with a move for either Joe Hart or Shay Given, depending on which keeper is made number 1 at the Eastlands stadium, however the club are reluctant to sell to a prized asset to a Premier League rival.

Schwarzer is eager to link up with the Gunner's in order to fulfill his dream of playing in the Champions League and is also thought to be keen on a coaching role moving forward at the club. Reports have suggested that Friedel is keen on a reunion with former Blackburn Rovers boss Mark Hughes after a successful relationship at Ewood Park, with the USA international the ideal replacement for outgoing Schwarzer.

The 39-year-old American has his heart set on finishing his playing days alongside his former boss, while Ulsterman  O'Neill was unhappy that the board even entertained the thought of the departure of the American keeper, along with  the sale of James Milner and the uncertainty surrounding Ashley Young and Gabriel Agbonlahor. It is also thought that the club were unwilling to re-invest transfer funds into O'Neill's budget.

With Gunner's manager Arsene Wenger having seen first choice keeper duo Manuel Almunia and Lukasz Fabianski make high profile errors at the tail end of last term, Arsenal have been keeping tabs on potential replacements between the sticks. Fulham's Mark Schwarzer has been the individual most regularly linked with it believed that Wenger has had an offer rejected by the Fulham hierarchy earlier this summer.

os5889

http://www.eveningtimes.co.uk/sport/editor-s-picks/no-return-to-celtic-planned-for-martin-o-neill-1.1047339

The Celtic manager was unable to recruit any more players before the signing deadline for the Europa League knock-out round ties with Utrecht on August 19 and 26. However, he can still add one player to the squad he has registered with right up until midnight next Tuesday.

Nottingham Forest central defender Kelvin Wilson – who is also wanted by Fulham – remains top of the wish list.

But Real Valladolid's former Spanish Under-21 centre back, Cesar Arzo – who has been watched by Lennon as he has also taken a close up look at keeper Jacobo – believes he can be the answer to their problems at the back.

The 24-year-old is available for under £2m and said: "Having been in Scotland for pre-season games, my desire now is to play there with a big club such as Celtic."

os5889

http://www.givemefootball.com/premier-league/former-villa-boss-feared-his-squad-was-being-disma

Former Villa boss feared his squad was being dismantled

....The fact that O'Neill had made no major signings this summer didn't appear to be problematic as he usually did his business towards the end of August.

The James Milner-Manchester saga was dragging on but there is a strong rumour he wasn't going to be given all of the funds raised from the sale and he felt that was critical if he was to at least retain their top six status.

With Ashley Young being courted by Tottenham and a rumour that Brad Friedel could also be on his way to Fulham, O'Neill's carefully assembled squad could have been dismantled.

It was noticeable that in O'Neill's carefully prepared leaving statement didn't mention either Lerner or chief Executive Paul Faulkner.

After four years of working in close tandem with Lerner the fact there was no mention of him in O'Neill's parting speech is a massive statement of discontent.


os5889

Why Martin O'Neill was let down as soon as Lerner lost his bottle

This morning some will argue Martin O'Neill's career goes downhill from here.

Some will say Aston Villa was his stepping stone to one of the big four clubs and he has blown his chance.

Well, O'Neill is 58 now and it is obvious he has not got many more big projects left in him.

But his stock should not be diminished by his sudden resignation yesterday. He should still be at the top of the short-list when the first Premier League job becomes available in the autumn's sacking season.


The truth remains that O'Neill did a fine job at Villa – and if owner Randy Lerner had the bottle to help his manager finish what he had started, Villa would have been competing in the Champions League this season.

O'Neill transformed Villa from a club flirting with relegation to a side challenging for the top four every season and only falling short because their squad was not big enough.

Lerner backed him in the early days and O'Neill justified Lerner's faith, signing Ashley Young and James Milner and by converting Gareth Barry into a top class central midfielder. But then, just when Villa were ready to take the great leap forward, the investment dried up, Villa were left to atrophy, Barry was sold and resentments crept in.

O'Neill could not compete with the big four on that basis. He could not even compete with Spurs and Manchester City, who backed their managers more vigorously.

But that does not mean he is not still one of the most talented managers in the game. Along with Everton's David Moyes and Tottenham's Harry Redknapp, he has consistently over-achieved wherever he has worked.

His main failing is that he has suffered from bad luck in his career. He should have got the England job when Sven Goran Eriksson left but the FA gave it to Steve McClaren.

And it was his misfortune that the Liverpool job became vacant after Roy Hodgson had a stellar season with Fulham and Villa tailed off again in the Premier League.

But his chance has not gone yet. The way Fabio Capello's going, the England job might soon be up for grabs again. If Roberto Mancini does not get off to a good start at Manchester City, he will be out by October.

When Lerner tries to get a replacement to replicate what O'Neill achieved, he will soon start to realise he just lost one of the best there is.



Read more: http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/opinion/columnists/oliver-holt/Why-Martin-O-Neill-was-let-down-as-soon-as-Aston-Villa-owner-Randy-Lerner-lost-his-bottle-Oliver-Holt-Column-article548951.html#ixzz0wCUu2oIj
Sign up for MirrorFootball's Morning Spy newsletter Register here

os5889

http://www.teamtalk.com/blogs/simon-wilkes/6304000

TEAMtalk's Premier predictions - Part Two
Tuesday 10th August 2010 11:03

With the Premier League kicking off again on Saturday, Si Wilkes and Matty Briggs are the latest to give us their predictions for 2010/11.

Having delivered our Football League forecasts last week, TEAMtalk's resident octet of bloggers are now turning their attentions to the top-flight and the cup competitions in the coming campaign.

We'll be bringing you our judgements from Monday to Thursday this week - make sure you have your say and give us your own predictions too by adding a comment below.

Si Wilkes' predictions:

Premier League top six: Chelsea, Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal, Manchester City, Tottenham.

It's so hard to look past either Chelsea or United for title glory when push comes to shove, but I do think both Liverpool and the Gunners will ensure it's a four-horse race this season - with the Blues winning it by a nose.

They've had a poor pre-season but who cares, Carlo Ancelotti knows his first-choice XI and although they're missing Ballack and Cole, Essien is back to full fitness and will be a key player in driving them to silverware this season.

United haven't splashed the cash but still have an incredibly strong and experienced squad, with Owen looking fit and sharp and Hernandez looking like he might be a handful for Prem defences.

I fancy Roy Hodgson to galvanise the Reds following last season's dismal showing, and his attacking style of play will allow Messrs Torres, Gerrard and Cole to flourish at Anfield, which will once again be a fortress.

Wenger's young Gunners now have more experience to call upon when the title race hits top gear, but their lack of a top-class goalkeeper could once again prove costly when the honours are handed out.

I've a feeling Spurs may struggle to cope with the demands of fans' greater expectations, allowing big-spending Manchester City to pip them to fifth. Mancini's men have looked like strangers in pre-season, and with so much talent at their disposal it's hard to see them ever fielding a settled line-up.

Premier League bottom three: Newcastle, Wigan, Blackpool.

I was absolutely delighted to see Blackpool win promotion in the play-off final, as it's simply huge for the seaside resort in terms of revenue for all local businesses and BnBs. But their squad is arguably weaker now than last season as they've lost their loan stars - and it's going to be a long season for them, with them probably propping up the table from near on start to finish.

I'm a West Brom fan and we've got a tough start to the campaign, but I'm backing us to recover and finish 17th as Robert Di Matteo will field a solid 4-2-3-1 formation which will give us more protection from the Prem's predators.

That means finding two more for the drop, so I'm predicting Newcastle for an immediate return to the second tier, where they'll be joined by Roberto Mancini's Latics, whose inconsistency will be their undoing.

Leading PL scorer: Fernando Torres.

Having committed his future to Liverpool and declared his undying love for the Reds, I think the Spaniard will score goals for fun under Hodgson, as they'll be given far more attacking licence, with Gerrard, Maxi and Cole providing the ammunition for Torres to fire.

First PL manager to be sacked: Roberto Mancini.

I got this bang on last season after tipping Paul Hart to be axed by Pompey, and this time I think Mancini will get the bullet if City get off to an indifferent start. With so many superstars and egos trying to settle in at Eastlands, they'll probably drop plenty of points on the road and City's short-sighted and trophy-hungry owners won't have any patience with the Italian.

PL bad boy - Player with most red cards: Lee Cattermole.

Sunderland's midfield hardman loves to put the boot in and with referees taking a harder line than ever, I think he'll see red on quite a few occasions.

SPL top three: Rangers, Celtic, Dundee United.

I think Celtic have taken a massive gamble handing Neil Lennon the reins on a permanent basis, and with the Bhoys in transition and full of new faces, I'm backing the wily Walter Smith to ensure the Gers recover from the loss of Kris Boyd to rule in Scotland once again.

SPL bottom side: Kilmarnock.

Killie concede far too many goals for my liking (27 at home, 24 away last season) and only scored six goals on the road last term, so I think they'll drop out of Scotland's top tier as Inverness should make the step up.

Others:

FA Cup winners: Arsenal

Carling Cup winners: Aston Villa

Champions League winners: Real Madrid (mainly due to the Special One)

Europa League winners: Liverpool (Hodgson to go one step further).

Matty Briggs' predictions:

Premier League top six: Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester City, Tottenham.

Javier Hernadez's arrival at Manchester United could well prove to be the best piece of transfer business this season. The Mexican's movement looks top class and I think he'll be a huge asset to United and I think he might just tip the scales in United's favour. Chelsea looked ordinary in the Community Shield at Wembley and although they will have Michael Essien back this term I think they might just struggle to keep up with United. I'm expecting better things from Arsenal this season after some shrewd business from Arsene Wenger this summer. They will have Robin van Persie back this term and it's a big season for Jack Wilshere, who I expect to come to the fore. Andrey Arshavin disappointed last year, but I expect him to be flying this term and it could also be Cesc Fabregas' sign off season so I think the Gunners will come a close third. Roy Hodgson should bring some respectability back to Liverpool, and Man City and Spurs should make up the top six once more.

Premier League bottom three: West Brom, Wigan, Blackpool.

The Baggies are a yo-yo team and I can't find any reason why that trend will stop this term. Wigan, under Roberto Martinez, were dreadful at times last season and I think they might just trot out more bad performances than good ones this time around. And as for Blackpool it's impossible to make a case for them and I think they could accumulate less points than Derby did!

Leading PL scorer: Wayne Rooney.

I think Rooney might just have a point to prove after the World Cup debacle. He came close last season and I expect him to repeat his efforts of last year and that should be enough to see off Fernando Torres, who looks primed for a big season at Anfield.

First PL manager to be sacked: Alex McLeish.

With Aston Villa chief Martin O'Neill gone I also expect Second City rivals Birmingham to axe McLeish. I tipped him for the boot last term and he proved me wrong, but I can't get excited by his close-season signings and think Carson Yeung might just lose patience if Blues start badly.

PL bad boy - Player with most red cards: Gary Caldwell.

Not blessed with great pace and picked up two reds last season and he could get exposed even more this season with Wigan expected to struggle

SPL top three: Rangers, Celtic, Dundee United.

Rangers to continue their dominance under Walter Smith, with Celtic bringing up the rear and Dundee United third.

SPL bottom side: Inverness.

A season of struggle after promotion.

FA Cup winners: Arsenal.

I'm expecting a big season from the Gunners so I'm going for them to win the FA Cup.

Carling Cup winners: Liverpool.

Roy Hodgson will be keen to win some silverware this season and the League Cup might just be within their capabilities.

Champions League winners: Barcelona.

In my opinion they were the best team around last season, but they will prove they are the best this season.

Europa League winners: Valencia.

It will probably be a team coming out of the Champions League. Atletico Madrid did the business last season so I'm going to go for another Spanish side in Valencia this term. La Liga is strong and if Valencia don't make the Champions League group stages they could go all the way in the Europa League.

os5889

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,12876_6304104,00.html

Gera unfazed by interest
Fulham midfielder unaware of interest in him

By Juha Pal   Last updated: 10th August 2010 

Zoltan Gera has admitted that he has heard nothing about the interest of rival teams regarding his future at Fulham.

The Hungary international has caught the attention of a number of clubs over the past few weeks as he prepares to face England in a friendly international on Wednesday night.

Premier League rivals Liverpool appear to be leading the chase for the 31-year-old former West Brom man as they seek some experienced back-up in their midfield.

Werder Bremen have also shown an interest after Gera netted an impressive 12-minute hat-trick against the German club in a pre-season friendly last Saturday.

Gera, though, says that the recent interest is news to him, telling MTI: "This is the first time I've heard about the interest of these teams for me."

Face to face

The Fulham star is looking forward to coming face to face with team-mate Bobby Zamora at Wembley.

"Bobby told me after the Werder Bremen game that he will see me at Wembley on Wednesday, though I wasn't sure at that time whether he will be included in the England squad.

"When the final squad was announced, I called him and told him that he should ask Steven Gerrard to pass him the ball and not me," joked Gera.

"We enjoy playing together as we play well together on the pitch but I'm delighted that he's finally been called up."


os5889

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11677_6304412,00.html

Friedel dismisses Fulham link
Friedel dismisses Fulham talk

Aston Villa goalkeeper Brad Friedel has rubbished speculation linking him with a move to Fulham, whilst also expressing his surprise at Martin O'Neill's resignation.

O'Neill stepped down as manager on Monday after four years at the helm, although the reasons for his departure were not explained.

Friedel could not shed any light on the matter when questioned by Sky Sports News, admitting that news of his boss' departure had come out of the blue.

"We are all surprised. Yesterday was training as normal and then I was sitting at home with the kiddies and it came over Sky," he said.

Friedel says the players were not given much more information when they reported for duty on Tuesday morning and were just told to focus on the task at hand.

And the American is confident Villa can cope with the disruption to their preparations for the new season and beat West Ham in their opening game on Saturday.

"We were just told that Kevin MacDonald is going to be taking charge and it is just our duty as players to get ready for West Ham," Friedel explained.

"We went out and trained as normal. As to the reasons, we're not privy to any of that.

"It is down to us to do the right thing for the football club and get the three points against West Ham."

Last to know

Asked about the timing of the events, Friedel added: "Kevin has been around the place and is well respected by all the players, so hopefully it won't be an issue and getting three points will go a long way for the club right now."

Friedel would not be drawn on reports linking his compatriot and USA manager Bob Bradley with the vacant role.

He said: "You'll have to talk to them (club bosses) about who the list of candidates are. The players are the last to know."

Some rumours have suggested that O'Neill quit the club because some players were set to be sold against his wishes.

No contact
James Milner is expected to join Manchester City, while Friedel has been connected with a switch to Fulham.

However, he maintains there is no substance in the story about him being wanted by Fulham.

"I have never had contact with Fulham or from Fulham," he said.

"I have never had a conversation with Martin O'Neill about Fulham so I don't really know where that came from."

os5889

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/432547-top-8-relegation-candidates-in-the-20102011-english-premier-league#page/9

Top 8 Relegation Candidates in the 2010/2011 English Premier LeaguE

Last season: 12th in the Premier League

Last season was a historic one for Fulham in which they reached the final of the Europa league only to lose in extra-time to Atletico Madrid.

This is a remarkable achievement when you consider that just 13 years ago they were playing in the fourth-tier of English football.

A lot of this success is as a result of Mohammed Al Fayed's investment in the club, but they will surely miss the managerial ability of Roy Hodgson, who left the club to take over at Liverpool.

His replacement Mark Hughes will be out to prove that Manchester City made a mistake when they let him go.

Chris Smalling has left to join Manchester United and he has been replaced by Phileppe Senderos, formerly of Arsenal. Hughes has inherited a talented squad including Brad Hangeland and captain Danny Murphy.

Midfielder Zoltan Gera (pictured) provides the creative spark and Hughes will be keen to ensure that the Hungarian remains at the club.

If Hughes can hang on to his best players then Fulham will be fine and could surpise people, especially without the distraction of Europe this year. However, if he loses one or two key players, either to injury or transfer, then Fulham could well see themselves being dragged into a relegation battle.

Prediction: 14th

os5889

http://www.teamtalk.com/news/2483/6304459/Zamora-enjoying-eventful-week

Zamora enjoying eventful week
Tuesday 10th August 2010 15:53

Bobby Zamora admits it has been something of a "crazy week" after a first England call-up followed by his wife giving birth to twin girls.

However, the Fulham striker intends to enjoy every moment.

Zamora is one of a string of new faces in Fabio Capello's senior squad for Wednesday night's friendly against Hungary at Wembley.

The 29-year-old had been on the verge of making the final party for the World Cup following a superb season for Europa League finalists Fulham, only to see his dreams dashed by an Achilles injury which needed surgery.

After finally breaking through into the senior international set-up, the former Brighton, Tottenham and West Ham forward intends to make the most of his opportunity.

"It has been a crazy week, but very enjoyable, so I am going to try to enjoy it all," said Zamora.

"The twins were born last Monday, they came out on Friday, then I had a match on Saturday, was back home for one day and then I was away with England, so I have not seen them as much as I wanted to, but I am sure I will find some time when I get back home.

"The twins, Gisele and Siena, are a massive part of my life now, and with getting the call-up to play for your country is a massive honour.

"I am lost for words. I am extremely proud to be called up to play for my country."

Zamora recalled: "Last year was a bit disappointing that I could not go to the World Cup because of my injury, but I guess that is life.

"Going and not doing either myself or the country justice says it all - you cannot go if you are not 100%, that is not fair on anybody, so in that sense the decision was quite easy.

"It had to be sorted over the summer, it has been operated on and feels 100% now, so I am looking forward to doing well for England.

"I have been training well, and certainly do not feel out of place.

"At the moment, it is one step at a time - hopefully I can get this cap under my belt and look to push on, to do well.

"If I get my chance, I am going to grab it."

With the retirement of Aston Villa striker Emile Heskey, there would appear to now be a vacancy in the England attack to supplement the tenacity of Wayne Rooney.

West Ham forward Carlton Cole is another option for Capello, but Zamora - who netted 21 goals last season, nine in Europe - believes he can certainly add something to the frontline.

"If they can bring the ball up to me, I would like to think I can hold it up and bring Wayne in, the guys from midfield and also get some shots off," Zamora said.

Manchester United striker Rooney came in for criticism following his below-par performances in South Africa, where he failed to find the net.

But Zamora defended his international team-mate, saying: "Everybody is expecting amazing things from him every time, and if he does have an off-day then everyone picks up on that.

"Wayne is one of the best players in the world and it will be an honour to play alongside him."

Much has been made of the reasons behind the Three Lions bitterly disappointing World Cup campaign.

Zamora, though, stresses the current squad are focused on the future, rather than continuing with post-mortems.

"The boss touched on it briefly today, that we want to push on and try to do well," the Fulham striker said.

"Everyone who is involved with the England set-up wants to do well and the whole of the country wants to win.

"The World Cup is in the past, and hopefully it can be forgotten, so we can all crack on to the next tournament now."


os5889

http://www.givemefootball.com/premier-league/arsenal-target-admits-he-could-move-on

Arsenal target admits he could move on
Federico Marchetti would be willing to move if a suitable offer came along but is happy to stay at Cagliari
By David Brenchley  August 10, 2010

Beppe Bozzo If before the end of August an offer arrives that would satisfy both Federico and Cagliari, then we could talk about it
The agent of Arsenal target Federico Marchetti has admitted the player is likely to leave Cagliari this summer if a suitable offer comes along.

The goalkeeper, who was called into action for Italy at this year's World Cup after an injury to Gianluigi Buffon, has seen interest in him rocket this summer.

Arsenal, who are having a keeper crisis at the moment, have been the club heavily linked with Marchetti but West Ham and Fulham are also keeping tabs.

Although the 27-year-old would move on if the right offer came along, he has repeatedly insisted he is happy to stay with the Serie A side.

Agent Beppe Bozzo told Sky Sport Italia: "I am in daily contact with the Cagliari directors. Federico is proud to wear the Rossoblu jersey.

"If before the end of August an offer arrives that would satisfy both Federico and Cagliari, then we could talk about it, but if that doesn't happen then Federico would gladly stay in Sardinia."

os5889

http://www.liveoddsandscores.com/news/sports/4212306/carling-cup-winner-betting-odds

Carling Cup winner betting odds
Posted in Carling Cup, Soccer, Sports on August 10, 2010 @ 2:52 pm by Matt Knowles

Chelsea and Manchester United are proving impossible for bookmakers to separate as they head the market for this season's Carling Cup. Both sides are 13/2 (bet £20 to win £130 profit) to win the trophy, which one or the other has done in five of the past six seasons. United are the current holders after beating Aston Vila 2-1 in last year's final.

Both sides are likely to use the competition to blood their younger players, who may not be playing every week in the Premier League. Chelsea certainly took that approach last season and crashed out to Blackburn on penalties, while Sir Alex Ferguson changed his team in every round.

Manchester City, however, are looking to make a name for themselves and have an extremely deep pool of talent at their disposal. Their second eleven would be a decent Premier League side and even if they rest their stars they could go a long way this season. They are slightly longer than United and Chelsea, available at 7/1 with Sky Bet and Bet 365.

Liverpool are next in the betting but they are likely to be focusing on regaining their lost Champions League spot this season and could rest injury-prone stars such as Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres. There is not too much to choose from outside of their first-team and odds of 12/1 on Betfair don't seem particularly generous.

North London's Arsenal and Tottenham are both 13/1 on Betfair to win a competition they approach very differently. Arsene Wenger has called the Carling Cup a 'non-trophy' and insists on fielding youngsters, with his teams often having an average age of around twenty years old. With this in mind, they are unlikely to go too far, especially given that his most talented youth will be called upon in the league this campaign.

Harry Redknapp, however, respects the competition and led Spurs to the final in 2009. They beat Chelsea in the final in 2008 and given that they will want to win and have good strength in depth, they may be the best value in the market at the moment. One concern, however, may be that their fixture schedule will be fuller than in previous seasons after their top four finish puts them in line for a Champions League place.

Other sides of note include Aston Villa, who are 16/1 with Stan James, and Everton, who are generally available at the same price. Fulham may be an interesting long-shot at 40/1 given their incredible showing in the Europa League last season, where they beat the likes of Wolfsburg, Juventus and Hamburg on their way to the final.