Friday Fulham Stuff (15/10/10)...

[WhiteJC]

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/blackburn-rovers/8064417/Sam-Allardyce-says-Danny-Murphy-wrong-to-call-Blackburn-Rovers-a-dirty-team.html?
Sam Allardyce says Danny Murphy wrong to call Blackburn Rovers a dirty team
Sam Allardyce has responded to Danny Murphy's claims that Blackburn Rovers are a dirty team, challenging the Fulham midfielder to be "man enough" to apologise for propagating the 'perception' that he sends his players out to injure opponents.

Murphy singled out Blackburn Rovers, Stoke and Wolves when he claimed some managers risk encouraging fouls by sending out teams overly fired up – a move that has provoked fury among players and management at Ewood Park – and said some players had "no brains" in the challenges they were making.

Blackburn have produced a raft of statistics to prove they are not a dirty side – they currently have the fourth-best disciplinary record in the Premier League with 11 cautions and no red cards this season, better than both Fulham and Arsenal.

Rovers have only had one player sent off all year, no players were suspended for five or more bookings last season, and their disciplinary record has improved hugely since Allardyce took over.

The Blackburn manager called on Murphy to apologise, insisting: "If he's man enough, that's what he should do.
"The allegation made by Danny Murphy was totally and utterly wrong as you can see by the facts we have given out.

"We are not dirty and we never go out to injure a player; I never send a player out to injure a player on the opposite side, we are too professional for that.

"In the disciplinary league table we are fourth, that's how good we are.

"People like Danny Murphy are giving a perception that's not true and I hate perception. There is far too much of it in the game, we should stick to reality.

"I was very, very angry indeed when I saw it. The players are very angry – was it brainless or mindless he said? An outrageous statement to make. They are very angry about that.

"We don't want any backlash from those suggestions, from people's perception that we are a dirty side."

Allardyce said the claims just added to false perceptions about Blackburn being an over-physical, long-ball side.

He added: "Yes we are physical when we need to be but we don't play dirty and we never have done.

"When somebody throws an allegation at you like that you have to defend it. I have had the best disciplinary record here for five years and have reduced the bookings ratio to around 1.5 per game from just over two.

"The perception of Blackburn Rovers is the wrong one in many, many cases but we have to live with it; the perception of Sam Allardyce is the wrong one but I have to live with it."

Allardyce also rejected suggestions that the number of injuries caused by tackling has increased.

"In most people's opinions it's far less dirty. We coach players not to give free-kicks away as most games are won or lost on set-plays."

Murphy's remarks at the Leaders in Football conference in London last week caused a storm.

Murphy said: "Your manager dictates what your players do and how you behave.

"You get managers who are sending their teams out to stop other teams playing, which is happening more and more – the Stokes, Blackburns, Wolves.

"They can say it's effective and they have got to win games but the fact is the managers are sending out their players so pumped up there is inevitably going to be problems.

"Every ship has a captain and that's the manager who is in charge."

Murphy said there should be tougher sanctions for dangerous tackles – especially for repeat offenders.

He added: "The pace in which some players go into tackles now is ridiculous. There's no brains involved in the players who are doing that."

Allardyce's comments were echoed by Blackburn keeper Paul Robinson, a former team-mate of Murphy's when both players were at Tottenham.

Robinson: said: "It's disappointing when a fellow professional feels the need to criticise other players and there was no relevance to it. We didn't and the other teams didn't have a game against them [Fulham] coming up so to be criticised as professional players and the way you go about your business is disappointing.

"When you look at the statistics since the manager has come in our disciplinary record has been excellent.

"Our yellow and red cards were better last season than when Mark Hughes was in charge.

"We are pleased with the way we go about our business and we handle ourselves correctly."

Asked why Murphy might have singled out the three clubs, Robinson said perhaps because they all made it difficult for opposing teams.

The keeper added: "The game has definitely got less tough over the years. It would be criminal to outlaw tackling in the game, it's a physical contact sport, it's a man's game and always has been."

[WhiteJC]

http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/standard-sport/football/article-23887992-dont-underestimate-fulham-simon-davies-warns-spurs.do?
Don't underestimate Fulham, Simon Davies warns Spurs

Simon Davies has warned Tottenham that Fulham will be out to prove just what a "dangerous team" they are in Saturday's London derby at a sold-out Craven Cottage.

Mark Hughes' men are unbeaten in the Barclays Premier League this season, but also have managed only one victory from seven matches.

Manchester United were held to a 2-2 draw at Craven Cottage back in August and Davis maintains Harry Redknapp's Champions League hopefuls will be in for similar treatment.

"We look a really dangerous team and it has been a shame that we have not gone on and won a couple more games, but the longer the season goes on, the better I am sure we will become," Davis said on the club's official website, www.fulhamfc.com.

"Spurs have got some great individual players, as they always have had, but they are really playing as a team now - that is why they are doing so well in the league and in the Champions League.

"It is going to be a tough game, but we have done all right against them over the last few years.
"The Cottage is a difficult place to come to and hopefully we can keep our home form going."

Davies, who will be 31 at the end of the month, has not been away during the international break after recently calling time on his career with Wales.

However, the midfielder revealed the group which stayed behind in west London have been working hard towards this weekend's resumption of domestic action.

"The manger's really keen to keep people as fit as possible," he said.

"We had a nice weekend off, but we came back and everyone's getting ready for Tottenham, which we know is going to be a tough game.

"It's been quite a small group that we've been working with every day. The sessions have been intensive - you definitely get your work in.

"It's been good, but it's a long time to go without a game so it'll be good when everyone's back.

"For the lads that are here it's about getting your head down and training as hard as you can."

Mousa Dembele is hoping to be involved again after an injury lay-off, while former England striker Andy Johnson is also on the comeback trail following an extended rehabilitation.

"He is looking sharp," Davies said.

"I've been talking to AJ a lot because I was out for a long time last season.

"The main thing is that his knee isn't giving him a problem so if we can get him back fit and firing he'll be like a new signing"

Fulham captain Danny Murphy made headlines during the international break when he pointed the finger of blame for reckless challenges at the managers of Stoke, Blackburn and Wolves, claiming "sending out their players so pumped up there is inevitably going to be problems".

It has already drawn criticism from Bolton boss Owen Coyle, but long-serving Crewe manager Dario Gradi believes his former trainee has it about right.

Speaking to BBC Radio Stoke, the 69-year-old said: "You don't play good football if you're hot-headed.

"I am happy to see people make tackles. I am just not happy for people to risk injury getting tackled.

"One of our supporters says to me every week, 'have you got them going Dario?'

"I always say 'No, I hope not, I am trying to keep them calm'."

[WhiteJC]

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1320564/Premier-League-managers-react-Danny-Murphys-controversial-claims.html?
Tackling the big issue: Premier League managers hit back at Danny Murphy's controversial claims

Fulham midfielder Danny Murphy caused outcry when he accused certain managers of being responsible for a spate of bad tackles this season by sending out teams who were too pumped up.

In particular, Murphy was critical of Sam Allardyce at Blackburn, Stoke's Tony Pulis and Wolves boss Mick McCarthy during an attack in which he said some players had 'no brain' for jumping into challenges.

On Thursday Allardyce hit back at Murphy and a number of other managers joined in the controversy which has cast a shadow over the game.

If Murphy is a man he'll apologise

Sam Allardyce hit back at Danny Murphy on Thursday and strongly defended his team's tactics, saying: 'People like Danny Murphy are giving a perception that's not true and I hate perception.

'The players are very angry. Was it "brainless" or "mindless" he said? An outrageous statement to make. They are very angry about that.

'We don't want any backlash from those suggestions, from peoples' perception that we are a dirty side.

'Apologise? If he's man enough, that's what he should do.

'Yes, we are physical when we need to be but we don't play dirty and we never have done.

'When somebody throws an allegation at you like that you have to defend it. I have had the best disciplinary record here for five years and have reduced the bookings ratio to around 1.5 per game from just over two.

Our sending off ratio is very, very good. In the whole of this calendar year we have only had one player sent off.

'We are not going out to try and injure players and we take great exception to anybody who suggests that.

'We are not dirty and we never go out to injure a player, we are too professional.'

No player aims to hurt another

Some managers, including Birmingham's Alex McLeish, fear that a clampdown on tackling will damage the game.

He said: 'We  are in danger of taking tackling out of the game completely.

'I know there have been a lot of stray tackles about over the last few weeks and it has been a big talking point. And I also know that UEFA and FIFA are more criticial about the English game than any other league in the world.

'We have to be careful in certain situations. But I do believe that the players are taking heed. But there will still be the odd occasion when players collide. It's inevitable.

'However, I still don't believe that any player goes out to harm another.'

We have to cut out reckless tackles

Owen Coyle joined Sam Allardyce in criticisng Danny Murphy for pointing the finger at particular clubs and managers.

The Bolton boss said: 'Danny Murphy is a terrifically talented player and, in time, if Danny decides to dip his toe in the water in terms of coaching and management, I think, if you speak to him, he might have a different perspective or angle on this.

'Not having had that experience of being a manager, I think it is a difficult one for him to call.

'I might be wrong but I'd imagine he'll probably regret some of it. To mention any club or individual was very wrong because you look at all the clubs involved and the managers they have - these people are fantastic at what they do.

'What we do have to do as a collective body is try to eradicate the tackles that are made outside the laws of the game.

'You will have mistimed tackles because of the frenetic nature of the Premier League, but there is a difference between a mistimed tackle and a reckless challenge.'

There is an art to a good tackle

Chris Hughton believes that poor tackling is punished more severely these days.

The Newcastle manager said: 'It's been highlighted in recent weeks because of the severity of some of the injuries.

Unfortunately in games there will be bad tackles that will put players out for a while.

'Tackling is very much an art, players aren't able to get away with what they were a few years ago and that's one aspect of the game that's very much changed.

'I don't think anything's changed from when I played — you send your team out with the right tactics to win and you want players to play with enthusiasm and endeavour.'
P.S. De Jong's tackle was just clumsy

The tackle by Manchester City's Nigel De Jong on Hatem Ben Arfa broke the Newcastle United player's left leg in two places in their recent Barclays Premier League match.

De Jong was severely criticised for his lunge, even though referee Martin Atkinson took no action at the time. City teammate Kolo Toure yesterday spoke out for De Jong, claiming the challenge was 'clumsy'.

Toure added: 'It wasn't a malicious tackle. He is not a violent person. He is focused on his football, he works hard on his physique and looks like a pitbull but he isn't a bad guy.

'His tackle was more clumsy than anything else. He is really upset for Ben Arfa. But these things can happen to anyone — just like Aaron Ramsey at Stoke last year.

'He regrets it and is struggling to deal with what has happened. And then he was left out the Holland squad, too. It's been very hard on him.

'Everyone is very full-on when they play here. It's what they call the passion of English football.

'Once again De Jong has ended up on the wrong side of it. He didn't mean to hurt him.'


Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1320564/Premier-League-managers-react-Danny-Murphys-controversial-claims.html?#ixzz12PLhSemM

[WhiteJC]

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1320582/Stoke-City-enter-race-Werder-Bremen-Fulham-midfielder-Zoltan-Gera.html?
Stoke City enter race with Werder Bremen for Fulham midfielder Zoltan Gera

Stoke are ready to compete with Werder Bremen for Fulham's unsettled midfielder Zoltan Gera.

The Hungary international almost joined Stoke on the last day of the transfer window but manager Tony Pulis opted for a simpler deal with Jermaine Pennant.

However, Pulis is still looking re-inforce his squad in January and may also join West Brom the hunt for Aston Villa midfielder Steve Sidwell.


Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1320582/Stoke-City-enter-race-Werder-Bremen-Fulham-midfielder-Zoltan-Gera.html?#ixzz12PM6Ey5b

[WhiteJC]

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_6444994,00.html?
Davies eyes Spurs victory
Cottagers midfielder has confidence ahead of London derby

Fulham midfielder Simon Davies is confident his side can overcome London rivals Tottenham on Saturday.

Spurs travel to Craven Cottage for a sold-out Premier League clash, with Mark Hughes' men unbeaten in the top-flight this season, although they have only managed one win in seven games.

Welshman Davies believes Tottenham will be tough opponents but is confident the Cottagers have what it takes to get back on the winning road.

"We look a really dangerous team and it has been a shame that we have not gone on and won a couple more games, but the longer the season goes on, the better I am sure we will become," he told the club's official website.

"Spurs have got some great individual players, as they always have had, but they are really playing as a team now - that is why they are doing so well in the league and in the Champions League.

"It is going to be a tough game, but we have done all right against them over the last few years.

"The Cottage is a difficult place to come to and hopefully we can keep our home form going."

Davies, 31, has retired from international football so did not link up with the Wales squad during the recent domestic break.

Keeping fit

However, he has been working hard to keep up to speed in West London and says boss Hughes wants every player to work as hard as they can in training.

"The manger's really keen to keep people as fit as possible," he added.

"We had a nice weekend off, but we came back and everyone's getting ready for Tottenham, which we know is going to be a tough game.

"It's been quite a small group that we've been working with every day. The sessions have been intensive - you definitely get your work in.

"It's been good, but it's a long time to go without a game so it'll be good when everyone's back.

"For the lads that are here it's about getting your head down and training as hard as you can."

[WhiteJC]

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/competitions/premier-league/7943479/Fulham-v-Tottenham-Hotspur-match-preview.html
Fulham v Tottenham Hotspur: match preview
Read a full match preview of the Premier League game between Fulham and Tottenham Hotspur at Craven Cottage on Saturday Oct 16 2010, kick-off 15:00 BST.

Fulham (Possible, 4-4-2): Schwarzer; Baird, Hangeland, Hughes, Salcido; Davies, Etuhu, Murphy, Duff; Dempsey; E Johnson.

Tottenham (Possible, 4-4-2): Gomes; Hutton, Corluka, Bassong, Assou-Ekotto; Van der Vaart, Huddlestone, Modric, Bale; Pavlyuchenko, Crouch.

Referee: Mike Dean. Matches: 6. R0 Y17.

Tale of the game
Only Fulham and Manchester United are unbeaten in the Premier League this season but Fulham have won just one and drawn the other six of their seven games. The one victory came at Craven Cottage, the 2-1 win over Wolves.

Last season these teams met four times. In addition to the two League clashes, the teams drew 0-0 at Craven Cottage in the quarter-finals of the FA Cup, with Spurs winning 3-1 in the White Hart Lane replay.

Mark Hughes has drawn 14 of his last 18 games as a manager, with Manchester City and Fulham. And his only defeat in his last 19 games as boss was against Spurs, when City lost 3-0 at White Hart Lane in December 2009. But Spurs have not won at Craven Cottage in the Premier League since March 2002. Since then, in eight visits, Fulham have won five and drawn three.

Spurs test Benoît Assou-Ekotto, William Gallas and Younes Kaboul but Michael Dawson, Ledley King, Aaron Lennon, Jermain Defoe, Jamie O'Hara and Jonathan Woodgate are all absent.

Last season: Fulham 0 Spurs 0, Spurs 2 Fulham 0

Stat of the game: Three of the last four League games between these teams at Craven Cottage have ended all square.

Betting tip: A 2-2 draw is 14-1.

[WhiteJC]

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/9081564.stm


Fulham v Tottenham

It's Champions League week for Spurs who go to Milan for their clash with Inter on Wednesday.

It will be interesting to see what the make-up of manager Harry Redknapp's side will be as a result of their forthcoming trip. It's a nice headache to have though.

Fulham have been tough to beat under Mark Hughes, so I reckon a draw is the likely outcome here.

Prediction: 1-1

[WhiteJC]

http://articles.squarefootball.net/squarefootball/2010/10/fulham-v-tottenham-hotspur-spurs-need-something-special-to-beat-sparkys-men.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Squarefootball+%28Squarefootball%29
Fulham v Tottenham Hotspur: Spurs need something special to beat Sparky's men

Harry Redknapp may be nicknamed Harry Houdini in some quarters but the former Portsmouth chief will have to produce some magic to overcome the curse of Craven Cottage. Tottenham have failed to win at Fulham in their past eight league visits but Redknapp would love to break that run this weekend, especially with a huge Champions League game with Inter Milan in midweek.

Fulham are turning into the Premier League's draw specialists. Their draw at Upton Park a fortnight ago was their sixth of the season already. They remain unbeaten, and are tough to break down, but Mark Hughes and the fans dearly need more wins under their belts.

Tottenham have given Fulham some proper spankings down at the Lane, and put four past them at the Cottage recently in the FA Cup, but when it comes to league action they always fail to grab all three points. They need something special to beat Fulham. Maybe Rafael Van der Vaart is that certain something.

Redknapp will need to make sure that his players are totally focused on the game in hand and don't have one eye on their mouth-watering trip to Italy. If they do I'm sure the Cottagers will be ready to make their capital rivals pay dearly.

Fulham v Tottenham Hotspur; Kick Off 3pm October 16 2010

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http://articles.squarefootball.net/squarefootball/2010/10/fulham-v-tottenham-hotspur-spurs-need-something-special-to-beat-sparkys-men.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Squarefootball+%28Squarefootball%29


Fulham v Tottenham Hotspur: Spurs need something special to beat Sparky's men

Posted by Colin Illingworth at 09:00 AM

in Colin Illingworth, Fulham, PP10, Predictions, Premier League, Tottenham Hotspur


Harry Redknapp may be nicknamed Harry Houdini in some quarters but the former Portsmouth chief will have to produce some magic to overcome the curse of Craven Cottage. Tottenham have failed to win at Fulham in their past eight league visits but Redknapp would love to break that run this weekend, especially with a huge Champions League game with Inter Milan in midweek.

Fulham are turning into the Premier League's draw specialists. Their draw at Upton Park a fortnight ago was their sixth of the season already. They remain unbeaten, and are tough to break down, but Mark Hughes and the fans dearly need more wins under their belts.

Tottenham have given Fulham some proper spankings down at the Lane, and put four past them at the Cottage recently in the FA Cup, but when it comes to league action they always fail to grab all three points. They need something special to beat Fulham. Maybe Rafael Van der Vaart is that certain something.

Redknapp will need to make sure that his players are totally focused on the game in hand and don't have one eye on their mouth-watering trip to Italy. If they do I'm sure the Cottagers will be ready to make their capital rivals pay dearly.

[White Noise]

Spurs Travel Update


Friday 15th October 2010


Supporters planning on attending the match between Fulham and Tottenham this Saturday should note that London Underground maintenance works could affect their travel time.

There is no service on the entire Circle Line due to engineering work.

On the District Line there will be no service between Edgware Road and High Street Kensington due to engineering work. There will also be no service between Putney Bridge and Wimbledon due to signalling work.

The Hammersmith and City Line is also affected with no service Hammersmith and Moorgate due to line upgrade work.

It is recommended that supporters using the tube allow extra time for their journey. For more information, please check the Transport for London website|.
.

Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/October/SpursTravelUpdate.aspx#ixzz12Pwja08K

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http://www.eatsleepsport.com/fulham/striker-hopes-for-fulham-1107117.html


Striker hopes for Fulham


Last Updated: Fri, 15 Oct 2010 09:52

Fulham striker Andrew Johnson is pushing to be included in the squad for the Premier League home clash with Tottenham on Saturday.

Johnson has been out of the side with a leg injury but is closing in on a return but Fulham will be without Bobby Zamora until the new year at the earliest.

Zamora suffered a serious leg injury in the victory over Wolves and is out long term, but fellow striker Moussa Dembele is hopeful of a return following an ankle injury

David Stockdale (ankle), defender Philippe Senderos (Achilles) and defender Fredrik Stoor (groin) are all hoping for a return but will face a late test.

[White Noise]

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/match/46064/fulham-vs-tottenham/preview

Fulham - Tottenham Preview: Moussa Dembele in line for return as Harry Redknapp's defensive problems ease

By Jamie Dunn

Moussa Dembele, who was sidelined by a late tackle by Stoke City's Andy Wilkinson in the League Cup, could return after taking part in a handful of training sessions. Andrew Johnson could also make his long-awaited comeback from a knee injury, while goalkeeper David Stockdale may also be available.

Bobby Zamora, Philippe Senderos and Stephen Kelly are all long-term absentees.

Possible Starting XI: Schwarzer; Baird, Hughes, Hangeland, Salcido; Davies, Etuhu, Murphy, Duff; Dempsey; Dembele.

Tottenham

Harry Redknapp could welcome back Younes Kaboul and William Gallas, who were both in training at Spurs Lodge on Thursday. Michael Dawson is also in with an outside chance of returning, while Benoit Assou-Ekotto is also expected to be fit following a knee injury.

Ledley King, Aaron Lennon and Jermain Defoe are unavailable, while Jamie O'Hara and Jonathan Woodgate are still without return dates.

Possible Starting XI: Gomes; Hutton, Kaboul, Gallas, Assou-Ekotto; Van der Vaart, Huddlestone, Modric, Bale; Pavlyuchenko, Crouch.

Spurs attempt to pick stubborn Cottage lock

Tottenham will arrive at Craven Cottage on Saturday knowing a win could temporarily send them as high as third, level on points with second-placed Manchester City.

But winning at Fulham has not proved to be easy for anyone this season. Mark Hughes' side are one of only two teams to remain unbeaten after seven games in the Premier League, sharing the honour with Manchester United, and have conceded just three goals at home.

However, they have won only one game so far this season, at home to 19th-placed Wolves, and so a defeat could see them make a significant drop into the bottom half of the table.

Unhappy hunting ground

Spurs will have to reverse a long spell without a Premier League victory at Craven Cottage if they are to be the first team to beat Fulham this season, though. Redknapp's side have not won there in the league since 2002, and recent visits will bring back unhappy memories for goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes.

In November 2008, the Brazilian handed Fulham the lead - literally - as he spilled a Simon Davies cross into his own net. Roy Hodgson's side went on to win the game 2-1, and the Spurs revival under Redknapp was halted.

Tottenham and Gomes are a different proposition these days though, and with talent like Gareth Bale at the top of his game, the visitors will be confident of securing a long-awaited win.

[White Noise]

http://football.fanhouse.co.uk/2010/10/15/fulham-v-tottenham-preview-danny-murphys-contribution-will-be/


Fulham v Tottenham Preview: Danny Murphy's Contribution Will be Key Factor

15/10/2010 5:30 AM GMT By Ben Hunt

PREMIER LEAGUE: CRAVEN COTTAGE, SATURDAY OCTOBER 16, 2010. KICK-OFF: 1500 BST

Both teams are eager to resume their Premier League campaigns after the international break. Fulham - along with Manchester United - have not suffered their first league defeat of the season yyet, an impressive record given they have a new manager in charge in Mark Hughes.

Tottenham, meanwhile, are eager to make amends for dropping points in their last away game at West Ham, Harry Redknapp's side looked in good form against Aston Villa in their last outing when they came from behind to win 2-1.

They have both have suffered their fair share of injuries during the early weeks of the season and, while the international break did stop their momentum, it has allowed those injury lists to improve.

It is still too early for their two main goalscorers in Tottenham's Jermain Defoe and Fulham's Bobby Zamora, who will be out until the New Year at the earliest, but there is good news in the pipeline for both teams with their other injured stars closing in on returns.

Key Match-up: Danny Murphy v Tom Huddlestone: Fulham's captain Murphy has seen his name plastered across the back pages of the daily newspapers following his comments that managers should be more accountable for some of their players' challenges. It was a bold statement from the midfielder who is no stranger to making strong challenges himself. All eyes will be on how he handles the pressure of playing against Tottenham's tough midfielder Huddlestone.

After England's dreary result against Montenegro, many English players will fancy their chances of staking a claim to be called up for the next international against France in November. One of them is Huddlestone, who has been earning rave reviews while playing for Spurs. The sturdy midfielder can play in the anchor role of Fabio Capello's 4-4-2 system allowing Steven Gerrard to get forward. The question is, can Huddlestone impress the Italian to enough to earn the chance to play? It should be possible task as Capello has handed debuts to Zamora and Kevin Davies in recent matches.

Form Guide: Fulham and Tottenham played each other four times last season - twice in the league and twice in the FA Cup. Fulham drew both the home games 0-0 while Spurs won 3-1 and 2-0 at White Hart Lane. In the 2008/09 season, the Cottagers won 2-1 at home with goals coming from Simon Davies and Andrew Johnson while the match finished 0-0 in north London. The head to head record between the two sides has Tottenham in front. They have won 35 times while Fulham just 11 in their previous 72 encounters. Both have made solid starts this season, but agree there is room for improvement.

Odds: Fulham 15-8, Tottenham 6-4, Draw 9-4
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FULHAM:
Simon Davies cannot wait to resume Fulham's Premier League campaign against his former club. The ex-Wales international says his team mates who have not been on international duty are raring to get going against Redknapp's side.

He told the club's website: "We've still been training very hard as the manger's really keen to keep people as fit as possible.
We had a nice weekend off but we came back and everyone's getting ready for Tottenham, which we know is going to be a tough game.

"They' have got some great individual players, as they always have had, but they're really playing as a team now. That's why they're doing so well in the league and in the Champions League.

"It's going to be a tough game but we've done all right against them over the last few years. The Cottage is a difficult place to come to and hopefully we can keep our home form going.

"We've got some creative players in midfield and with the way the manager likes the full backs to be attacking, when we've clicked into gear, like the first-half at West Ham, I think we played some really good football. We look a really dangerous team and it's been a shame that we haven't gone on and won a couple more games."

Strategy: Hughes is likely to opt for the same starting line-up that drew 1-1 with West Ham in their last match. The former Manchester United forward prefers to use a 4-4-2 system that will encourage his players to press forward. John Pantsil is hoping to be recalled in the right back position while Mousa Dembele will undergo a late fitness test on his leg to see if he can partner either Eddie Johnson or Diomansy Kamara in attack.

Injury Update: This match is expected to come too soon for Johnson, who is making steady progress from his knee problem. David Stockdale is likely to return to the bench after his lay off with an ankle problem. Zamora and Philippe Senderos are both long term casualties.

TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR:
Luka Modric has hailed the impact of his team mate Rafael van der Vaart since he moved to Tottenham. The transfer deadline day signing from Real Madrid has made an impressive start to his career at Spurs and scored both goals in their victory over Aston Villa.

And Modric believes there is still more to come from the Dutch international and is relishing forming a devastating partnership with him.

He told the club's website: "Rafa is an exceptional player and he's showed that since he came to the club. He's a great signing. He's played at great clubs, Ajax, Hamburg, Real Madrid and I think he can give more quality to the team. It's not hard to play well with that kind of player and I'm happy he's here with us.

"For me, I'm a little out of rhythm, I've had a couple of injuries this season and I'm not yet back into my rhythm but in a couple of games I'll settle down and play better. I just need to be fitter. It's been hard for me because I've had a couple of injures but in a couple of matches I'll be back into full shape."

Strategy: Van der Vaart and Modric will provide the creativity in Tottenham's midfield on the wings while Huddlestone and Jermaine Jenas will supply the power in midfield. The main area of concern for Redknapp is his defence but he is likely to be boosted by the return of William Gallas and Younes Kaboul.

Injury Update: Gallas (groin) and Kaboul (hamstring) are likely to be given the green light. Benoit Assou-Ekotto (knee) and Michael Dawson (knee) could also return. Ledley King (groin), Jonathan Woodgate (groin), Defoe (ankle) and Aaron Lennon (back) are all still out.

[White Noise]

Fulham v TOTTENHAM: Harry Redknapp may save Ledley King for Champions League


By Sportsmail Reporter Last updated at 11:42 AM on 15th October 2010


Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp will leave it late to decide whether to play central defender Ledley King at Fulham or save him for Wednesday's Champions League encounter against Inter Milan.

Younes Kaboul and William Gallas, meanwhile, are back in training and David Bentley is on his way back from injury.

Long-term absentee Jonathan Woodgate, who has travelled the world in his search for a cure to his chronic injury problems, has had another injection in his troublesome groin and Redknapp says: 'We are staying positive and hoping he will play again.'

Team (from): Gomes, Hutton, Huddlestone, Bassong, Assou-Ekotto, Van der Vaart, Sandro, Jenas, Modric, Palacios, Bale, Pavlyuchenko, Lennon, Crouch, Cudicini, Keane, Kranjcar, Corluka, King.


Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1320811/Fulham-v-TOTTENHAM-Harry-Redknapp-save-Ledley-King-Inter-Milan-tie.html#ixzz12QM7OPNI

[White Noise]

http://www.sport.co.uk/news/Football/45264/Cottagers_prepare_for_Spurs_derby_clash.aspx

Cottagers prepare for Spurs derby clash

Author:  Andrew Allen


Posted on:15 October 2010 - 11:20 AM


Fulham and Tottenham Hotspur go head-to-head in another all-London affair at Craven Cottage.

Under the guidance of Mark Hughes and Harry Redknapp respectively, the two teams have made fine starts to the new campaign.

Fulham sit in tenth place after one win and six draws from their opening seven outings while Spurs occupy fifth spot at this early stage.

Th Cottagers are proving a tough nut to crack and Hughes has certainly stamped his mark on the side after he replaced Roy Hodgson in the summer.

With Mark Schwarzer in between the sticks, he has been admirably supported by defenders Carlos Salcido, Brede Hangeland, Aaron Hughes and Chris Baird.

However, they face the sternest of tests this weekend with Spurs making the short trip to the banks of the River Thames.

With the likes of Rafael van der Vaart, Roman Pavlyuchenko, Peter Crouch and Gareth Bale finding form this season, it promises to be another intriguing top-flight showdown.

But the contest may come at the ideal time for Fulham with Spurs taking on Champions League holders Internazionale in Milan on Wednesday.

Redknapp may opt to rest a number of big-name players for the highly-anticipated European away day in Italy and he may be in somewhat of a quandary for this one.

Long-term injury victims Bobby Zamora (broken ankle) and Philippe Senderos (Achilles) are out, while Moussa Dembele (ankle) has returned to training but won't feature this weekend.

Striker Andrew Johnson is nearing a return from his knee injury and Stephen Kelly (calf) could be available.

Spurs are definitely without the stricken Jonathan Woodgate (groin), Jermaine Defoe (ankle), Michael Dawson (knee) and Jamie O'Hara (back).

England winger Aaron Lennon was forced to pull out of the national team squad for the midweek clash with Montenegro and he could be rested with their European test in mind.

Defenders Younes Kaboul (hamstring), Benoit Assou-Ekotto (knee), William Gallas and Ledley King (both groin) are nearing full fitness, but it remains to be seen whether they will come into the frame.

In the last Premier League meeting at SW6, there was little festive cheer last Boxing Day as they played out a dour goalless draw.

But just a month later, Spurs scored a 2-0 success at White Hart Lane to take the capital honours.

Crouch and David Bentley put the visitors to the sword on that evening and they would settle for much of the same this time around.

[White Noise]

http://sport.virginmedia.com/football/article/2010/10/15/redknapp_focus_is_on_fulham


Redknapp: Focus is on Fulham


Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp has warned his team their match against Fulham is more important than next Wednesday's Champions League encounter with Inter Milan in the San Siro.

Redknapp wants his side to concentrate on collecting league points in a bid to finish in the top four for the second consecutive season.

"It is hard balancing the Champions League with the Premier League," said Redknapp "But they've got to concentrate on the trip to Craven Cottage. That is the key now.

"The league position is all important because unless we win the Champions League we are not going to qualify for the Champions League next year. If we want to play Champions League football like Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal invariably do every year we have to finish in the top four again. That is our priority.

"We also want a good run in the Champions League but if you go out of the Champions League and finish halfway up the table, at the end of the year if you are not in European football it is not good.

"These next two league games for me are massive."

[White Noise]

http://www.footymad.net/storytext.asp?article=320471



PREVIEW: FULHAM V TOTTENHAM

Fulham and Tottenham Hotspur go head-to-head in another all-London affair at Craven Cottage.

Under the guidance of Mark Hughes and Harry Redknapp respectively, the two teams have made fine starts to the new campaign.

Fulham sit in tenth place after one win and six draws from their opening seven outings while Spurs occupy fifth spot at this early stage.

Th Cottagers are proving a tough nut to crack and Hughes has certainly stamped his mark on the side after he replaced Roy Hodgson in the summer.

With Mark Schwarzer in between the sticks, he has been admirably supported by defenders Carlos Salcido, Brede Hangeland, Aaron Hughes and Chris Baird.

However, they face the sternest of tests this weekend with Spurs making the short trip to the banks of the River Thames.

With the likes of Rafael van der Vaart, Roman Pavlyuchenko, Peter Crouch and Gareth Bale finding form this season, it promises to be another intriguing top-flight showdown.

But the contest may come at the ideal time for Fulham with Spurs taking on Champions League holders Internazionale in Milan on Wednesday.

Redknapp may opt to rest a number of big-name players for the highly-anticipated European away day in Italy and he may be in somewhat of a quandary for this one.

Long-term injury victims Bobby Zamora (broken ankle) and Philippe Senderos (Achilles) are out, while Moussa Dembele (ankle) has returned to training but won't feature this weekend.

Striker Andrew Johnson is nearing a return from his knee injury and Stephen Kelly (calf) could be available.

Spurs are definitely without the stricken Jonathan Woodgate (groin), Jermaine Defoe (ankle), Michael Dawson (knee) and Jamie O'Hara (back).

England winger Aaron Lennon was forced to pull out of the national team squad for the midweek clash with Montenegro and he could be rested with their European test in mind.

Defenders Younes Kaboul (hamstring), Benoit Assou-Ekotto (knee), William Gallas and Ledley King (both groin) are nearing full fitness, but it remains to be seen whether they will come into the frame.

In the last Premier League meeting at SW6, there was little festive cheer last Boxing Day as they played out a dour goalless draw.

But just a month later, Spurs scored a 2-0 success at White Hart Lane to take the capital honours.

Crouch and David Bentley put the visitors to the sword on that evening and they would settle for much of the same this time around.

[White Noise]

http://www.spursodyssey.com/1011/prevpackfua.html


Spurs Odyssey Preview - Fulham v Spurs - 16.10.10  

· Last Season's Corresponding Game - 0-0
· This week - last year
· What happened in the Premiership in Match 8 2009-10
· NEW! - See the current injury list for all Premiership Teams!
· All the Spurs Stats you could hope for here! THFC6061 Sports Stats



Full Record of Spurs -v- Fulham

Premier       Pl   W   D   L    For-Ag  Pts
Home           9   5   3   1    15 - 5   18
Away           9   1   3   5    10 -14    6
===========================================
Total(Prem)   18   6   6   6    25 - 19  24
===========================================
Football Lge
Home(Div 1)   11   8   3   0    28 - 13  19
Away(Div 1)   11   6   4   1    17 - 12  16
===========================================
Total(Div 1)  22  14   7   1    45 - 25  35
===========================================
Football Lge
Home(Div 2)   11   4   6   1    13 - 8   14
Away(Div 2)   11   4   5   2    20 - 16  13
===========================================
Total(Div 2)  22   8  11   3    33 - 24  27
===========================================
Total(Prem)   18   6   6   6    25 - 19  24
Total(Div 1)  22  14   7   1    45 - 25  35
Total(Div 2)  22   8  11   3    33 - 24  27
===========================================
Grand Total   62  28  24  10   103 - 68  86
===========================================

Last Six Premiership results:-

Fulham

Fulham     2-2   Man Utd
Blackpool  2-2   Fulham
Fulham     2-1   Wolves
Blackburn  1-1   Fulham
Fulham     0-0   Everton
West Ham   1-1   Fulham

Spurs

Stoke      1-2   Spurs
Spurs      0-1   Wigan
West Brom  1-1   Spurs
Spurs      3-1   Wolves
West Ham   1-0   Spurs
Spurs      2-1   A. Villa

Pos        P  W  D  L  F-A  GD  Pts
5  Spurs   7  3  2  2  8-6   2  11
10 Fulham  7  1  6  0  8-7   1   9

Time to make a mark

Mark Hughes' Fulham are one of only two unbeaten teams in this season's Premier League. The other is Manchester United. Both have drawn the higher proportion of their games, which means they are not as high in the league as they might otherwise have been. In Fulham's case, they have only managed one win in their seven games, which came at home against Wolves, and was courtesy of a last minute goal by new signing Moussa Dembele. Dembele scored Fulham's other goal too, and his first league goals gave Fulham fans a little hope in the knowledge that Bobby Zamora had his leg broken in the same game by Wolves skipper Karl Henry. The Wolves "anti-football" tag started here.

Unfortunately for Fulham, Dembele has been out since 21st September with an ankle injury, but he could be back to face us on Saturday. Former Spur Stephen Kelly may just miss this game with a calf muscle strain, but former gooner Senderos is Fulham's only other long term injury worry. Senderos has yet to play a competitive game for his new club, having suffered his ankle injury against Spain in the World Cup. In fact Senderos has only played 9 competitive games over the last year, and most of those have been for Switzerland.

Fulham do still have the mainstay of their defence though - Brede Hangeland. He won't be dwarfed by Peter Crouch, assuming the Englishman resumes his successful partnership with Rafael van der Vaart. Another summer signing Carlos Salcido has been a 90 minute man in 5 of Fulham's games so far, but he was busy in the 2-2 draw between Mexico and Venezuela on Tuesday. Our own Giovani scored a goal in that game, but as opposed to Salcido, he is unlikely to feature at Craven Cottage.

Fulham lost Paul Konchesky to Liverpool and Chris Smalling to Man Utd in the summer (Smalling was signed and loaned back in January, but has now gone permanently), but otherwise they have retained plenty of familiar faces, such as Mark Schwarzer, Simon Davies, Danny Murphy and Clint Dempsey. Dempsey has a compatriot and possible strike partner in Eddie Johnson, but if Dembele returns, Johnson may miss out. Fulham also signed former West Brom midfielder Jonathan Greening permanently, but he hasn't featured much this season. Danny Murphy will be as determined as ever to make an impression against the team that he used to play for occasionally.

Hopefully, all Spurs Internationals have returned unscathed from their travels on this International break. Benoit Assou-Ekotto came off after 70 minutes in his game for Cameroon against Congo last Saturday, but should be okay to play this week. We should also be hopeful that Younes Kaboul and William Gallas are fit again after their recent absences. Ledley will presumably be held back for next week's Inter game, although he too has been suffering a groin strain on top of his usual troubles. According to the Physio Room site, even Michael Dawson might be back soon, but I cannot imagine he will be available for selection for a couple of weeks at least.

Both teams will be keen to make a mark on this game for the right reasons. Fulham need their second league win of the season, which would put them above Spurs and give them a real fillip. Similarly, Spurs want another win and consistency to stake their continuing claim to a top four place. It's a difficult game to call, and one goal might just be enought to secure the three points. Let's just hope it's Spurs!

[White Noise]

http://www.adifferentleague.co.uk/p6_1_4714_club-focus-fulham-on-the-pitch-is-where-it-counts.html

Club Focus - Fulham - On the pitch is where it counts

By Matt Domm


Friday 15 October 2010


Getting back to football on the pitch is exactly what Fulham, and, more specifically Danny Murphy, need. With a week off from club fixtures, matters in SW6 tend to be ignored. However, after Murphy came out and condemned three particular club managers - whose sides Fulham faced in consecutive games recently - attention has been focused on the Whites captain.

Some will agree with the ex-Liverpool man, others won't, but his opinion is no less valid than anyone else in the game. Having been shrewdly asked to withdraw from his punditry role for the recent England qualifier by his manager Mark Hughes, Murphy will surely be looking forward to getting back on the field, where he does his best talking. His 33-year-old legs may sometimes fade towards the end of 90 minutes, and he may start to become a target for players who disagree with his views, but he possesses the ability to create time and space where none exists, which is a talent that will not be lost as the physical side of his game will inevitably decline.

His leadership qualities on the pitch, too, mean he is always listened to and respected by his teammates and could be why some are taking notice and - quietly, perhaps - agreeing with his recent comments. On Saturday, Murphy returns to his most recent former club, against whom he will feel he has unfinished business. Having never quite fit into the Tottenham setup, the Englishman will likely have the fire in his belly he so regularly shows against ex-clubs and rival ones. With the recent media focus, in particular the League Manager's Association's less-than subtle response, Hughes could do worse than use that as ammunition to spur his playmaker on to a strong performance. Against an always solid Tottenham side, any opportunity to turn a situation into an advantage is needed.

It is out of Murphy's hands whether over-zealous challenges are to be looked at by the governing bodies, but leading by example and showing how he believes the game should be played is very much within his capabilities. At his best, Murphy cannot be dispossessed, he can thread a needle with the ball, and he can inspire the men around him. While he is of course not getting any younger, he has enough in the tank to turn in match-winning performances, of which Fulham fans will be hoping Saturday is one. Perhaps most importantly of all, with his advancing years, Murphy has matured into a player who is rarely ruffled. Passionate and self-critical, yes, but he is strong enough to cope with the fallout his comments have created.



As Hughes looks for only his second win so far this season, Saturday's London derby will be a gripping encounter, and all eyes will be on Murphy. Should he rise to the challenge, there is every chance of the Cottage outfit taking the points.

[White Noise]

Tyrone James Returns


Friday 15th October 2010




This month Fulham will be celebrating equality and diversity in football by supporting Kick It Out's One Game, One Community weeks of action campaign which take place from 14-26 October.

Tyrone James, one of the first black players to represent Fulham, was a recent visitor to the Club's Motspur Park training ground. James broke into the Fulham side at a time when the team featured such illustrious names as Bobby Moore, Alan Mullery, Rodney Marsh and George Best.

"I was already at Fulham as a young player and the first players to join while I was there was Bobby Moore, I had already met him when I was about 16 and went for trials with West Ham," James recalled. "There was Bobby Moore, Billy Bonds, Harry Redknapp and Trevor Brooking at West Ham. I went to Fulham when West Ham couldn't keep me on as an apprentice.

"When I came back from my holiday, my mum told me that Bobby Moore's going to play at Fulham. When I walked in Bobby Moore was sitting opposite me, he looked at me and said, 'Hey, Tyrone. How's it going? What's it like here at Fulham, is it a good club?' I never spoke to him as a junior at West Ham but he remembered me from training and obviously asked who I was. When he spoke to me, everyone else was in shock.

"Alan Mullery, Rodney Marsh and George Best were also there. The attendances grew, the training got more serious because the Club needed to go forward and show that they meant business."

Soon enough James had impressed enough people behind the scenes to be handed his Fulham debut and in the process became one of the first black players to feature for the Club.

"The youth team would train and the reserves and seniors would be way off training," James recalled. "At one time during the season, three players got injured; Alan Slough, John Fraser and John Cutbush. One Friday afternoon Alan Mullery came over to me and said, 'The Gaffer wants to talk to you.' So I walked into his office, Alec Stock was the coach, he looked at me a said, 'you're going to get a lot of phone calls today. You're playing tomorrow.'

"You always train to play because you don't know who will be watching you. I never trained with the first team, I never made the bench for the first team but because of the way I was training and the reports from my coach, they gave me my debut – just for my performances in training.

"On the day of my debut I was nervous. I drove to the ground in the team coach. There were lots of people waiting. I got into the changing room and sat in the corner with all of the senior players.

"All the players had been there and done it like Alan Mullery, Les Strong, Bobby Moore and Peter Mellor. I just sat there minding my own business.

"The game went really fast. Bobby Moore was at the back with me and he told me how to go through it. I couldn't wait to get home to see the game on TV."

Looking back on his time at Craven Cottage, James had particularly fond memories of the Fulham faithful.

"The fans were very supportive," he said. "They gave you encouragement, especially as a young player. But the only time you heard the crowd was when the game stopped because when the games going on you're in such a zone. When it stopped, there was a lot of encouragement. Win, lose or draw they made you feel welcome and good to be part of the club."

However, there was also an ugly facet to the game in those days, which black players like James had to deal with. Yet in the face of racism, James showed admirable strength of character to get on with the game.

"I remember in my playing days sometimes you would go out and some fans would be calling you names," he said. "You'd think that you couldn't stay out there and would have to go back into the changing rooms. Or when it was quiet and you'd go to pick up a ball, a supporter would bend over and say his bit.

"I've had a few things but I let it go. When they play with your mind - that can put you off your game. But I learnt from an early age that if you give as good as you take and then more - then it's your will against their will – and they won't come back again.

"In my time, black players were considered to be lightweight, you can get to their mind and they didn't want the physical side of the game. When I played I didn't mind that, I was there as a defender and I had to stop the attacker. I had to be strong and fit and get possession for the team.

"You learn to step forward all the time. It's easier to make excuses about people saying things or things happening. You can lose your direction. I always say, whenever you're in the ground, whatever colour you are and whatever the supporters say to you – that's their opinion. You focus on what you have to do and what you've been coached to do. Your coaches expect that of you and so do the players you play with.

"When you get off the pitch, that's the environment you live in and you have to deal with that. But when you get on the pitch, if you can't switch off you'll never become what you want to become."

James resides in Australia but recently met up with a group of kids from Fulham FC Foundation's Merton Kickz project. He first met the group this time last year and spoke of his experience of playing for Fulham in the 1970s and some of the the racism he was subjected to.
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Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/October/TyroneJamesVisit.aspx#ixzz12QRegvmn