Sunday Fulham Stuff (29.08.10)

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http://www.newsoftheworld.co.uk/sport/football/924058/SCHWARZER-MOVE-ON-A-KNIFE-EDGE.html

SCHWARZER MOVE ON A KNIFE-EDGE

Given key to deal


By Neil Ashton


MARK SCHWARZER'S move to Arsenal is hanging on a knife-edge after Fulham finally made their move for Shay Given on Saturday.

Given is wanted on loan by Fulham until the end of the season, but Manchester City are sending confusing signals south.


Schwarzer has not featured in any of Fulham's games this season and believes he has a gentleman's agreement that he can sign for Arsenal.


Given is desperate to quit City for first team football and will be guaranteed the No1 spot under Mark Hughes at Craven Cottage.


Schwarzer is desperate for his move to Arsenal to go through, but it won't happen unless City allow Given to quit.


Stick with us on Tuesday for our live deadline day special.

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http://www.newsoftheworld.co.uk/sport/football/924086/FULHAM-MAKE-THEIR-MOVE-FOR-WILSON.html


FULHAM MAKE THEIR MOVE FOR WILSON

Pompey skipper in demand


By Jeremy Butler, 28/08/2010

FULHAM boss Mark Hughes has joined the race for Portsmouth midfielder Marc Wilson.

Stoke thought they had a deal tied up for the youngster on Friday after agreeing to send Dave Kitson and Liam Lawrence to Fratton Park as part of the package.


But West Ham have now tabled a cash bid for Wilson in excess of the £3m offer from West Brom that was rejected last week.


And Hughes is ready to offer £5m for the Pompey skipper with the troubled South Coast club keen to rake in the cash.


Portsmouth boss Steve Cotterill would prefer to bring in Kitson and Lawrence to add some strength to a squad severely short on numbers.


But the administrators want more than the £3m Stoke are willing to pay on top of allowing the two players switch to Pompey.


Administrator Andrew Andronikou said: "Nothing has been finalised yet over Marc Wilson.


"There is still a lot going on and we will mull over the offers on the table over the weekend. It will be a decision made by various people at the club."

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http://www.newsoftheworld.co.uk/sport/football/924065/STOCKDALE-GETS-ENGLAND-CALL-UP.html

STOCKDALE GETS ENGLAND CALL

Rapid rise for keeper


By Neil Ashton


FULHAM rookie David Stockdale will complete an amazing rise to the top when he is named in Fabio Capello's England squad.

Stockdale, 24, has been called up for the Euro 2012 qualifiers after impressing Capello during last weekend's 2-2 draw with Manchester United.


England face Bulgaria at Wembley on Friday before travelling to Switzerland as the campaign trail gets underway.


Stockdale is only in the Fulham team because Mark Schwarzer is apparently carrying an injury, but he's already convinced Capello.


He saved Nani's penalty at Craven Cottage last weekend and is now thrust into the limelight as England's third choice keeper.


Stockdale, who began his career at York City, is in the squad with No1 Joe Hart and Birmingham's Ben Foster.


It also means the end for Robert Green, overlooked for the friendly with Hungary earlier this month, under Capello.


Green was axed as England's keeper following his blunder against the USA at the World Cup on June 12.


He has now fallen behind Stockdale, who had made just three appearances for Fulham before the start of this season.


Stockdale has spent large parts of his career in the lower divisions and was sent out on loan to Plymouth last season.


He has also had spells on loan at Wakefield & Emley and Worksop Town as he struggled to kickstart his career.


Stockdale got his big chance when he joined Darlington four years ago and spent two seasons at the club before joining Fulham.


He has been Schwarzer's understudy since moving to Craven Cottage, but was a shock starter against Bolton on the opening day of the season.


Schwazer is on the sidelines with an injury and will complete his move to Arsenal before Tuesday's transfer deadline.


Stockdale also played in Fulham's 6-0 victory over Port Vale in the Carling Cup last week and has done enough to merit his place.

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http://www.newsoftheworld.co.uk/sport/football/924133/SPARKY-TARGETS-2M-FEDERICI.html


SPARKY TARGETS £2M FEDERICI

 
FEDERICI: Hughes fancies the keeper


28/08/2010

FULHAM boss Mark Hughes hopes to make a £2million move for Reading's Adam Federici.

Hughes sees the Aussie keeper, 24, as the ideal replacement for wantaway Mark Schwarzer.


Federici is out of contract with the Royals at the end of the season.

Boss Brian McDermott said: "We've had no offer but, with the deadline coming up, who knows what will happen?

"The fact is a number of players have left this club. If things happen after the weekend we'll have to look closely at it."

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http://www.newsoftheworld.co.uk/sport/football/924040/QPR-WAIT-FOR-JOHNSON-GREEN-LIGHT.html


QPR WAIT FOR JOHNSON GREEN LIGHT

JOHNSON: Could leave before the deadline


By Greg Gobere, 28/08/2010

FULHAM boss Mark Hughes is debating whether to let USA striker Eddie Johnson join QPR on loan.

Hughes is still working on bringing Roque Santa Cruz to Craven Cottage from former club Manchester City and is concerned about his attacking options even though Moussa Dembele has joined from AZ Alkmaar.


QPR boss Neil Warnock has visions of firing his side into the Premier League and is determined to add Johnson to an already healthy stack of striking talent with former Tottenham midfielder Adel Taarabt adding guile to the R's.


Johnson has been at the Whites since 2008 but has spent much of that time on loan to Cardiff and Greek side Aris.

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http://www.newsoftheworld.co.uk/sport/football/924326/Etuhu-ruins-the-Tangerines-dream-home-start-in-a-cracker.html


ETUHU SQUASHES A TANGERINE DREAM


Blackpool 2 Fulham 2


By Steve Lillis, 28/08/2010

THE fans did not stop shouting, the players bled tangerine, tears flowed from the terraces - and that was just the first home game of the season.

How the Blackpool public will cope with the next nine months is anybody's guess, but their hearts won't be broken like this.


Fulham, last season's Europa League finalists, were on the receiving end and looking well beaten - until Dickson Etuhu's late, late equaliser.


The celebrations had began on the seaside town's three creaky piers when Moussa Dembele's pass split the home defence and Etuhu left Bloomfield Road in stunned silence, apart from 1,500 travelling fans.


Sir Stanley Matthews, Jimmy Armfield and Stan Mortensen are Blackpool's greatest stars, but Luke Varney would match them for popularity right now.


His cross led to John Pantsil's equalising own goal - and then Varney scored what looked a likely winner until Etuhu's first league goal for almost 17 months


Varney started the week hoping he would play for Derby County against QPR, but he ended it on loan to the Premier League's supposed whipping boys - and is now their goal hero.


Apart from one great season at Crewe, the striker's career has never taken off until yesterday - just 24 hours after joining Ian Holloway's men. Men, women and kids sung 'Holloway's Tangerine Army', making a noise that would have shaken Blackpool Tower. They had been waiting for this moment since their play-off win against Cardiff in May.


When Blackpool last played a home game in the top flight in 1971, they drew against a Manchester United side that included George Best, Sir Bobby Charlton and Denis Law.


No wonder they are determined to enjoy every second of the next nine months, however painful this season will become in the coming months.


Bloomfield Road won't ever be winning any stunning stadium awards, but a lick of paint, two new stands and the smell of Tarmac tickling the nostrils make it a proper football ground.


They were up and at Fulham from the off. Had Brett Ormerod's early header not been ruled out for offside, who knows what might have happened?


Some fans were celebrating so wildly Fulham were on the attack before they realised the Premier League's youngest referee, Michael Oliver, had disallowed the old stager's effort.


It was totally undeserved when Bobby Zamora headed Fulham in front after 35 minutes, but the quality of finishing at this level is something Blackpool are learning all about.


They were convinced Ian Evatt had been fouled in the build-up, but the quality of Dembele's cross after exchanging passes with Damien Duff was quality.


There was not much else class to be seen to be brutally honest and Fulham were a shadow of the team that held Manchester United to a draw six days earlier. Manager Mark Hughes spoke up for his boys afterwards, but their record of one win in 20 away league matches is something he needs to address and quickly.


And once Zamora hobbled off, much to the disappointment of watching England coach Fabio Capello, Fulham had little to offer apart from impressive Belgian international Dembele.




VARNEY: Debut scorerBlackpool had a second goal disallowed in the 62nd minute, but David Stockdale had clearly been fouled by Gary Taylor-Fletcher.


They still looked nailed on for their first away win in a year until Pantsil failed to deal with Varney's 71st-minute cross and diverted into his own goal.


Blackpool took the lead five minutes later - Fulham were looking for offside when Varney slammed in Ormerod's pass.


In the end, Blackpool never had the legs as Fulham finally came to life after their Etuhu's 87th-minute rescue act.


Had Blackpool keeper Matthew Gilks not foiled Simon Davies in stoppage time, it may have ended in horror.


It was fun, though, and it's only just begun.

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http://www.newsoftheworld.co.uk/sport/football/924251/Chelsea-midfielder-booked-in-for-midweek-hernia-operation.html

JARVIS COULD BE LAMPS' REPLACEMENT


Capello hit by injury problems


By Neil Ashton


FRANK LAMPARD is out of the England squad after being booked in for a hernia operation.

The Chelsea midfielder, who missed a penalty against Stoke, will have surgery on Wednesday.


It means Wolves midfielder Matt Jarvis, who has been named in the 30-man provisional squad, could take his place.


Jarvis was stunned on Thursday to learn that he is in Capello's thoughts and may now be in the squad for the Euro 2012 qualifiers against Bulgaria and Switzerland.


Lampard was substituted during Chelsea's 2-0 victory over Stoke but is expected to be back for their next game at West Ham on September 11. Chelsea chief Carlo Ancelotti said: "Lampard will have surgery next week, there is nothing we can do about it.


"He has been feeling the injury for a while but he felt it during the game and we have to take action. It's something he suffered with 10 years ago. It's been irritating him and needs attention.


"It's not serious, it's a simple operation and he should return for our next game."


England chief Fabio Capello was informed after the match and he will be sifting through a depleted squad list this morning. Fulham striker Bobby Zamora (thigh strain) and keeper David Stockdale (ankle), a surprise inclusion in the squad, have both reported injuries.


Tottenham striker Peter Crouch is also out of contention after picking up a rib injury.

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http://www.newsoftheworld.co.uk/sport/924658/HOLLOWAY-NEEDS-THE-CAVALRY.html

HOLLOWAY NEEDS THE CAVALRY  

28/08/2010

IAN HOLLOWAY wants to sign EIGHT new players before the transfer window closes.

Blackpool boss Ollie said: "I need at least eight players if I can. The chairman keeps telling me 'hold your nerve'.


"I am holding it, Mr Chairman, but we need some cavalry to come over the hill. We need some more players, we need some more attackers, I could also do with a left-back, a right-back and a goalie."


Holloway hailed Luke Varney's strike saying: "I am delighted with the second goal.


"I think that is the best football any team of mine has ever produced and I celebrated far too much. I have been talking about us passing and moving. That was about as good a move as I have seen from us, a brilliant goal. It is a fantastic day for the football club and we have to pinch ourselves that we are are this level.


"Fulham are a fantastic side and I can't tell you how impressed I am with them."

Meanwhile, Mark Hughes has demanded that Fulham improve their dire away form this season.


The Cottagers snatched a point at Blackpool but they have not won a Premier League game on their travels for more than 12 months, a run stretching 20 games.


The Fulham manager said: "We have not picked up many points on the road and that is something we are aware of and must improve on.


"Given the fact we don't have the problems at home, it is key to having a decent season.


"We got in a position where we were in the lead against Blackpool, but didn't play as well as we can in the second half - though that was a lot to do with Blackpool. We made mistakes and let them back in the game - but we showed great character to get back on level terms.


"It is another away point and we are pleased - but credit to Blackpool, they will cause teams problems here."

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http://www.newsoftheworld.co.uk/sport/football/923857/HODGSON-TO-KOP-A-SECOND-COLE.html

HODGSON TO KOP A SECOND COLE


Mereiles and Konchesky to seal moves



By Andy Dunn


ROY HODGSON will make a last-ditch attempt to take Carlton Cole to Anfield as he embarks on a late transfer window spending spree.

The Liverpool manager has already committed over half of the money generated by the sale of Javier Mascherano to the signings of Raul Meireles and Paul Konchesky.


And his sights have now turned to bringing in top-class striking reinforcements.


Peter Crouch had become his No 1 target but it is now clear that Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp will not part with the England striker.


Kenny Dalglish was despatched to watch PSV forward Ola Toivonen last weeked but there is a feeling that - at the Dutch club's asking price of £13million - the Swede is over-priced.


Toivonen is still on the club's radar but Hodgson will now focus on Cole, who has endured a tough start to his West Ham season.


Hodgson will offer cash plus a couple of players and might even be prepared to do a deal that would take Ryan Babel to Upton Park.


Midfielder Lucas is certainly one that would be available to become a makeweight in any deal.


West Ham have said Cole is not for sale but the News of the World understands they would take a fee of around £10million.


Hodgson could get that sort of money together as he has been given licence to spend the Mascherano fee - in excess of £20m - and a bit more.


But the Liverpool chief would prefer to offer West Ham a player-plus-cash deal for the 26-year-old striker. If that was accepted, Hodgson would have funds to add another player or two to his squad.


As well as a striker to provide much-needed assistance for Fernando Torres, Hodgson believes that he needs another midfielder - especially as they have now reached the demanding group stages of the Europa League.


That is why he did not countenance a possible sale of Dirk Kuyt, even though the Dutch player's agent had clearly been busy with his European contacts.


Liverpool were upset with former Kop boss Rafa Benitez for unsettling Kuyt.


The Spaniard's original Anfield contract - seen by the News of the World - included a specific clause, outlawing him from 'directly or indirectly' soliciting Liverppol players for a six-month period after his departure from the club.




KUYT: Unsettled by RafaAnfield sources suggest the clause remained even after he signed a new deal.


Kuyt could still yet leave Anfield. It will not be in this transfer window but Liverpool might be tempted to sell at the right price in January.


A bid in excess of £10m would certainly test their resolve to hold on to the Dutchman.


As Argentine midfielder Mascherano was completing the formalities of his move to Barcelona, Hodgson wasted no time in beginning his late outlay.


After enquiries about Real Madrd midfielder Mahamadou Diarra came to nothing, Hodgson turned to 27-year-old defensive midfielder Meireles, whose arrival from Porto should be rubber-stamped today - along with the £4m signing of Konchesky from Hodgson's former club Fulham.

Indeed, Liverpool have confirmed a fee has been agreed for Meireles with a routine medical set to be completed soon.

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http://www.newsoftheworld.co.uk/sport/football/924484/FABIOS-BECK-TRACKING.html

FABIO'S BECK-TRACKING

Capello's amazing U-turn


By Neil Ashton



FABIO CAPELLO has opened the door for David Beckham to make a sensational England return.

In an astonishing U-turn the England boss called to tell Beckham he can still add to his 115 caps.


Capello ended Beckham's international career before the clash with Hungary earlier this month and had even offered him a "farewell to the fans" friendly.


Incredibly he has now promised the former England captain he will be under consideration when he returns to full fitness at LA Galaxy.


Capello said: "First Beckham has to be playing again but the door is always open. We're monitoring all the players.


"Once he recovers and is in really good condition, we will have a chat.


"I think the future is with the youth but after that, I will decide which players to choose.


"We know the value of the different older players. The future is with the young players because we have to think about the Euros but no player is out."


Capello's indecision was a factor in England's World Cup failure and the latest example will only add to the confusion in the camp. He even broke his golden rule of calling players directly but claims Beckham was an exception because he was part of his coaching staff at the World Cup.


In reality, Beckham did little more than work with Capello's coaches on his own recovery from a torn Achilles tendon and occasionally offered some tips to the squad.


Capello added: "The relationship between me and David is really good.


"I spoke with him on the phone because he was part of the staff at the World Cup. Usually I don't speak with players but in this case I spoke with David."


Capello will name his squad for the Euro 2012 qualifiers against Bulgaria and Switzerland this evening. Beckham is not under consideration this time, but Capello will still make a shock inclusion by selecting Fulham rookie David Stockdale.


Capello has been impressed with Stockdale and will make him third- choice keeper behind Joe Hart and Ben Foster.


The England chief claims he is still committed to the country as he prepares for a long qualification campaign.


He is now spending two hours a day improving his English, something which will impress the FA and should have a positive effect in the dressing room.

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Blackpool 2 Fulham 2: No sign of Holloway's hurricane blowing out

By Ian Ridley

Last updated at 10:59 PM on 28th August 2010


A Tangerine tidal wave, the announcer assured us, was going to roll through the Premier League this season and the raucous Blackpool fans chorused that this was the best trip they had ever been on.

You want to believe them, so refreshing are their club, so honest are their team. 
Bobby dazzler: Zamora beats keeper Alex Baptiste to score for Fulham
If ever a town's excitement and enthusiasm can stave off relegation, then it will here on the breezy, bracing Fylde Coast.

Ian Holloway's spirited side made their first home Premier League game an occasion to remember.

They fell behind to Bobby Zamora but recovered to lead in five breathless secondhalf minutes through a John Pantsil own goal and the debutant Luke Varney.

Dickson Etuhu's late equaliser may have taken some wind from the home side's sails but still Bloomfield Road rose to acclaim a side who will not, should not, be written off.

Holloway said: 'It's a fantastic day for the club. What an achievement just to get the game on, just to be playing at this level. And some of the football we played was worthy of it. I can't tell you how proud I am and to see how the crowd have responded.'   
Luke at me: On-loan Varney scored Blackpool's second
Blackpool's last home game in the top flight before relegation saw them also draw, 1-1 with Manchester United in 1971.

But if that was a gloomy day, here was a joyous one.

Fulham, who won just once on the road in the Premier League last season, were grateful for a point that eased the pain of injuries to Zamora, who pulled a thigh muscle, and rookie goalkeeper David Stockdale, who turned an ankle.

They were watched by Fabio Capello and are likely to be in his England squad for the European Championship qualifiers against Bulgaria and Switzerland but both are deemed 'very doubtful' by Fulham boss Mark Hughes.

'We made a couple of mistakes but showed great character to get back on terms,' Hughes added.

'We haven't picked up many away points lately and it's something we need to improve on.'
Ready for action: Blackpool's Bloomfield Road

Blackpool may have been cautious in the transfer market but Holloway's men are determined to risk an attacking 4-3-3 approach.

Having missed their opening cue when the match against Wigan had to be switched due to building work, they timed their entrance right a fortnight later.

The new, temporary East Stand was up, all the Premier League merchandise was in the club shop and the sun even shone, though a wicked wind blew in from the Irish Sea.
It pushed Fulham back as the home side rode the roars of their support. Varney, newly arrived on loan from Derby, quickly forced Stockdale to beat away a volley then flashed a shot across goal.
After being subjected to an exhibition at Arsenal last week, Blackpool were given another lesson: that you can be on top but a swift break by top-flight players can undo all your good work.
Oh no: Fulham's John Pantsil (left) deflects the ball into his own net

Damien Duff found Moussa Dembele who crossed from the right for Zamora to head home.

Half-time let Holloway rally his team and after having an effort disallowed for a foul by Varney on Stockdale, they equalised.
Adam robbed Etuhu in midfield and found David Grandin, who spotted Varney on the right. His cross-shot was going wide until Pantsil diverted it into his own net.

The home fans grew even louder after Blackpool's second. Brett Ormerod fed Varney with a neat through-ball and he tucked it away.

But they were brought back to reality when Dembele sent Etuhu clear and he fired home.

BLACKPOOL (4-3-3): Gilks; Baptiste, Cathcart, Evatt (Eardley 64mins), Crainey; Grandin, Vaughan, Adam; Ormerod, Taylor-Fletcher, Varney. Subs (not used): Halstead, Basham, Euell, Sylvestre, Demontagnac, Keinan. Booked: Vaughan.

FULHAM (4-4-2): Stockdale; Pantsil, Hughes, Hangeland, Kelly; Davies, Etuhu, Murphy (Gera 80), Duff (Greening 85); Dembele, Zamora (Dempsey 59). Subs (not used): Zuberbuhler, Baird, Riise, Briggs. Referee: M Oliver (Northumberland).



Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1306990/Blackpool-2-Fulham-2-No-sign-Holloways-hurricane-blowing-out.html?ITO=1490#ixzz0xwX5afUT

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Arsenal will make a final attempt to prise Mark Schwarzer from Fulham on Monday with a final £2.5m bid.
Manager Arsene Wenger has been chasing the 37-year-old Australia keeper all summer but two separate £2m offers have been rejected.

Despite Manuel Almunia's man-of-the-match performance in the 2-1 win at Blackburn, Wenger believes he needs a new goalkeeper to sustain a credible title challenge


Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1307100/Tottenham-striker-Robbie-Keane-set-Aston-Villa-Newcastle.html#ixzz0xwaIcnHO

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From non-League to international call-up in just four years: How David Stockdale has punched above his weight

By Rob Draper Last updated at 11:44 PM on 28th August 2010

Just four years since he was plying his trade for the likes of Worksop Town and Wakefield and Emley, on Sunday David Stockdale will be teaming up with Steven Gerrard, Wayne Rooney and Frank Lampard et al ahead of the forthcoming Euro 2012 qualifiers against Bulgaria and Switzerland.

After just four Premier League games, including a virtuoso performance in the season's opener and a great penalty save against Manchester United, he has done enough to catch the eye of England manager Fabio Capello.


He injured an ankle in Fulham's draw at Blackpool yesterday but will join up with the squad today.

However, if the medical staff decide he should return to his club for treatment, the 24-year-old's England dream will be put on hold.
Stockdale has played for England - for the National Game XI, a team composed solely of non-League players.

That was during his time at Conference side York, where criticism by boss Billy McEwen about his weight proved a turning point.

He has admitted that the remarks forced him to re-focus on his career, which helped earn him a move to Darlington.
'I got back into shape after letting myself go at York, which was welldocumented,' Stockdale said at the time.
'I accept that now but I would have preferred not to have been criticised in public. It probably gave me a kick up the backside and I feel a better person now.'
He joined Fulham in 2008 and, after loan periods at Rotherham, Leicester and Plymouth, earned his chance after Mark Schwarzer's injury.


Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1307107/From-non-league-international-just-years-How-David-Stockdale-punched-weight.html#ixzz0xwb3NKjO

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Gudjohnsen dropped from Iceland team for Euro 2012 qualifiers

By Sportsmail Reporter

Last updated at 9:00 PM on 28th August 2010

Eidur Gudjohnsen has been dropped from the Iceland team to face Norway and Denmark in next week's Euro 2012 qualifiers.

Coach Olafur Johannesson left the striker out because he is between clubs. He is not training with Monaco and has been in Iceland for the last three weeks.


Tottenham and Fulham were reported to be interested in signing him on loan while Rangers rejected his wage demands.


Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1307078/Eidur-Gudjohnsen-dropped-Iceland-team-Euro-2012-qualifiers.html#ixzz0xwbo7AEj

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Fulham set to go for Federici

Published 23:00 28/08/10


By Alex Crook



Fulham boss Mark Hughes is lining up a £2million bid for Reading goalkeeper Adam Federici.

Hughes sees Australian international Federici as the ideal replacement for the unsettled Mark Schwarzer, who is still being linked with a move to Arsenal.

Federici, 24, is out of contract with Reading at the end of the season and is yet to agree a new deal.

Royals boss Brian McDermott said: "We've had no offer for Feds but with the deadline coming up, who knows what will happen?

"The fact is a number of players have left this club. If things happen after the weekend we'll have to look closely at it."



Read more: http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Transfer-news-Adam-Federici-is-being-lined-up-by-Fulham-as-a-replacement-for-Mark-Schwarzer-article567111.html#ixzz0xweKPOgA
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Blackpool 2-2 Fulham: Sunday Mirror match report

Published 23:02 28/08/10

By MirrorFootball

Luke Varney celebrated his dream move to Blackpool with a cracking ­debut goal — but the game left injured Fulham duo ­Bobby Zamora and keeper David Stockdale doubtful for England call-ups.

It looked as though Ian Holloway's men might fall to defeat on their first home game back in the big time for 39 years.

Zamora put Fulham ahead in front of on-looking England boss Fabio Capello. But the in-form hitman went off because of a thigh injury and looks as though his international call-up this week could be stymied.

There's big speculation that Fulham shotstopper Stockdale was also in the frame for a Capello call-up, but boss Mark Hughes revealed that he's now suffering from an injury.

"Zamora has a thigh injury and must be a doubt for England — it would be a shame if he can't play. We'll have tests, but he's doubtful at the moment," revealed Hughes. "Stockdale went down on his ankle. If he's in the frame, he too is doubtful."

This was a cracking contest. Varney forced Fulham defender John Pantsil in to deflecting an own goal for the equaliser.

Five minutes later, Varney — on loan at Sheffield Wednesday from Derby last season — took matters in his own hands.

Varney, who only signed for Holloway on Friday, was put through by ­veteran striker Brett Ormerod. And the 27-year-old powered a shot past helpless Stockdale.

It looked as though it might do the trick for Blackpool, who shook off their 6-0 hammering by Arsenal and their shock midweek Carling Cup defeat by MK Dons.

But with six minutes left, Dickson Etuhu broke through and chipped the ball past Scottish keeper Matthew Gilks to earn Fulham a share of the spoils.

But nothing could take away the feel-good factor from plucky Blackpool, who were only given a safety certificate for their new stand with days to go and who last graced the top flight back in 1971.

Now Blackpool are back up with the game's 'big boys' and enjoying every minute, even with a rollercoaster season ahead.

Blackpool boss Holloway enthused: "What a fantastic day and what a goal by ­Varney. The build-up was the best football we've ­produced, and I've told them to do that again.

"Then blow me down, we let them come back — we must learn some harsh lessons. I still need seven or eight more players.

"But I'm pleased with Varney. He's got pace and looks like he's been here all his life."

The way Zamora took his goal must have impressed Capello, who saw the Blackburn-Arsenal early kick-off and was due to witness Manchester United's late kick-off against West Ham United.

There was a hint of controversy in the build-up as new signing Moussa Dembele appeared to foul marker Ian Evatt, before whipping down the wing and crossing for Zamora to bullet home the ball.

But the incident went unpunished by ref Michael Oliver... who missed Blackburn 'goal' at Birmingham last weekend.



Read more: http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Blackpool-2-2-Fulham-Sunday-Mirror-match-report-Luke-Varney-scores-on-debut-but-injuries-to-Bobby-Zamora-and-keeper-David-Stockdale-could-rule-them-out-of-England-selection-article567173.html#ixzz0xweadQFt
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Hammers swoop for Arsenal left-back

Published 23:00 28/08/10


By MirrorFootball



West Ham are set to swoop for Arsenal defender Armand Traore.

The 20-year-old defender last week turned down a £3million move to Benfica after the clubs had agreed a fee.

Traore is believed to want to stay in England – and West Ham are ready to give him that chance.

The French youngster is third choice left-back at The Emirates behind Gael Clichy and Kieran Gibbs.

West Ham would give the chance of regular first-team football and Traore is likely to accept that offer.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is confident that Mark Schwarzer will come to Arsenal ahead of Tuesday's transfer deadline.

The emergence of David Stockdale at Fulham means manager Mark Hughes has a ready-made replacement and if Arsenal increase their offer by £500,000 to £2.5m, Fulham look certain to relent.

Schwarzer has made it clear he wants to take the opportunity to play Champions League football so late in his career.

His arrival will mean either Lucasz Fabianski or Manuel Alminia will be allowed to leave Arsenal, possibly on loan.



Read more: http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Transfer-news-Armand-Traore-is-being-eyed-by-West-Ham-as-Arsenal-hope-to-tie-up-a-deal-for-Mark-Schwarzer-article566793.html#ixzz0xwf3Y0Tm
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Shay Given set to end his Manchester City hell by joining up with Mark Hughes again at Fulham

By Joe Bernstein

Last updated at 11:25 PM on 28th August 2010


Shay Given will end his Manchester City frustration by joining up with former manager Mark Hughes at Fulham, which will allow their No 1 Mark Schwarzer to sign for Arsenal.

City are reluctantly prepared to let the Republic of Ireland goalkeeper leave before deadline day on Tuesday even though they have made it clear they would like him to stay and provide competition for Joe Hart.

Given, disappointed to lose the jersey to Hart, has made it clear he wants regular first-team football.

Hughes said after Fulham's 2-2 draw against Blackpool: 'Mark Schwarzer has made it clear that he would like to go to Arsenal so we are trying to look at other options. I'malways interested in quality players and Shay Given is a quality player. Make of that what you will.
'But I have said that if we can't get anyone else in, Schwarzer will have to stay.'

Given's arrival at Craven Cottage will also delight Wenger, who regards Schwarzer as a solution to his long standing goalkeeping problem.
Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini does not want to keep unhappy players at the club and has already let Craig Bellamy, Stephen Ireland and Nedum Onuoha leave. City will also listen to authentic offers for Roque Santa Cruz and Robinho.

First choice: Joe Hart seems to be above Shay Given in the pecking order
Emmanuel Adebayor will also go if a club match the £25million which City spent to bring him from Arsenal.

If all the departures happen, Mancini will struggle to find enough senior players to fill his 25-man squad for the Premier League and there could be reprisals for outcasts Jo and Felipe Caceido.

City play Sunderland on Sunday but £24m striker Mario Balotelli is unlikely to have recovered from a knee injury in time to make his Premier League debut.

David Stockdale, who played in goal for Fulham at Blackpool, is set to be called into the England squad by Fabio Capello.


Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1307132/Shay-Given-leave-Manchester-City-Fulham.html?ITO=1490#ixzz0xwfMKqOn

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http://hammyend.com/index.php/2010/08/injuries-could-rule-fulham-pair-out-of-england-duty/


Injuries could rule Fulham pair out of England duty

by Dan on August 28, 2010

It's rotten luck but it looks as though both Bobby Zamora and David Stockdale could miss out on being involved with England next week due to injuries picked up in today's draw at Blackpool.

Zamora, who put Fulham ahead at Bloomfield Road, is a big doubt according to manager Mark Hughes after picking up a thigh strain. He was a certainty to be included in Fabio Capello's squad for the Euro 2012 qualifiers against Bulgaria and Switzerland after impressing on his debut against Hungary a fortnight ago, but limped out of today's game midway through the second period.

Hughes' post-match comments revealed just how much of a team man Zamora, who must be relishing the chance to make his mark in international, really is.

Bobby went really stiff at half time. He thought it was just a bang on the muscle and went out again. But he could not shake it off.

I think he must be a doubt unfortunately. He was really looking forward to getting a chance. I will imagine he will go and be assessed by the England medical team and we will receive the information as quickly as we can. But at the moment he looks doubtful.

David Stockdale's call-up to Capello's squad, widely trailed in the weekend papers, is also in jeopardy after the 24-year-old goalkeeper sustained an ankle injury in a collision with Luke Varney. Stockdale, who made a number of fine saves this afternoon, has enjoyed a fine start to the season in the Fulham goal but Hughes is just as pessimistic about his chances of staying with the national squad should be included.

David has come in and done really well. But he has gone over on his ankle. He has got to be a doubt. It will be a real shame if he cannot stay with the group if he is picked.

[White Noise]

http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2010/08/28/jamies-report-blackpool-2-2-fulham/


Jamie's Report: Blackpool 2-2 Fulham


Filed under: Match info — weltmeisterclaude @ 9:38 pm

Blackpool 2 Fulham 2

A strange and entertaining match which we could have won, but nearly lost. In the end we had to settle for our third draw out of three – perhaps a disappointment after the week's previous results had raised our expectations so high. But this wasn't your average Fulham away point. It appears Mark Hughes is already transforming us into quite a different team.

Blackpool started eagerly, throwing balls and men into the area as they looked to capitalise on early season optimism. But Fulham were quietly impressive and the more assured of the two sides. Moussa Dembele was making his first league start and after 35 minutes he made an impact: sent down the right by Duff, he steadied himself before planting a powerful cross onto the head of Bobby Zamora, who made no mistake. So far, so good.

The other selection change was Stephen Kelly at left back, ahead of the departing Konchesky and the up-and-coming Briggs. Kelly spent the second half making wonderfully daring raids down the  wing, right in front of the assembled 1300 Fulham fans and reminiscent of his finest hour, in Basel, December 2009. But he was crippled by a mixture of his inability and reluctance to use his left foot, and was involved in perhaps the turning point of the match when, during one such raid, a simple pass across the area which should have gifted Dempsey a certain goal never materialised. Instead he scuffed a weak effort with the outside of his right and, from the interception, Blackpool went up the other end and scored – Dean Varney making full use of the space left by Kelly's run.

Varney's shot, initially heading for the bottom corner, was deflected away from goal by Hangeland  but then into the net by the unfortunate Paintsil. It capped a difficult day for our favourite Ghanaian, who seems to be struggling for form since the World Cup. I wonder if a solution doesn't therefore fall neatly into place: Salcido (assuming he signs) slotting in at left back, the lively Kelly switching to the right and Paintsil gaining a well-earned rest?

By this point in the game we had also suffered two injuries: firstly to Zamora, who was replaced by the desperately glum and disinterested looking Dempsey, and then to David Stockdale, who for some reason wasn't replaced by Pascal Zubherbuhler despite clearly hobbling throughout the last half an hour. It had also started pouring with rain, and amongst it all we had fallen apart completely. Blackpool soon had a second from a lovely flowing move, finished by Varney who found the same bottom corner, this time without any assistance.

The sense of disappointment was familiar for Fulham's travelling fans but the remainder of the game certainly wasn't. Hughes acted fast, hauling off Murphy (after another iffy performance from our captain) for recent goal-hero Zoltan Gera and replacing the quiet Duff with Greening. Refreshed, we came storming back, with Dembele taking the game by the scruff of the neck in startling fashion – first almost scoring himself after a fantastic weaving run, and then playing the exquisite through ball that set up our equaliser.

The goalscorer? Dickson Etuhu, who showed no little pace and skill to gallop majestically onto Dembele's pass, take a touch and lift the ball expertly over the advancing goalkeeper into the net. Fulham's travelling contingent exploded with relief and delight as Etuhu ran down the touchline towards Hughes – the man who has let him off the leash and in doing to might possibly have transformed his career.

Exciting, frustrating, wonderful and woeful stuff, all in one day – this is how football is meant to be, isn't it? The Fulham fans' cheer at the final whistle felt as is if wasn't so much for the result as for a game that had got the blood flowing so much more than the normal 0-0 shut out. It's too early to tell how successful Mark Hughes will prove to be, or whether we'll come even close to matching the achievements of the previous two seasons under his leadership. The good news is that on current evidence, it looks like it'll be exciting either way.