Thursday Fulham Stuff (18.02.10)

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http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Fulham-boss-Roy-Hodgson-forced-into-playing-full-strength-team-for-Shakhtar-Donetsk-Europa-League-tie-article325859.html

Hodgson forced into playing full strength team for Shakhtar tie



Published 15:34 17/02/10


By Neil McLeman


Roy Hodgson has claimed he will play his strongest side against Shakhtar Donetsk in the Europa League tomorrow night - because he has no choice.

Paul Konchesky has still to return from injury along with long-term victims Andy Johnson, Clint Dempsey, John Pantsil and Kagisho Dikgacoi. New January signings Nicky Shorey and Stefano Okaka are both cup-tied.

The Cottagers have played 14 matches since the Ukrainian side, the reigning UEFA Cup champions who beat Spurs last season, started their mid-winter break.

Shakhtar have been training at Watford"s London Colney training base this week after watching Fulham win through to the last eight of the FA Cup at the weekend.

But Hodgson admitted the fixture pile-up combined with the lengthening injury list means he cannot afford the luxury of squad rotation with the Premier League visit of Birmingham approaching on Sunday.

"It is not too difficult to balance the squads because we only have 18 senior players with Konchesky and now he is not available we will bring in a guy from the academy," he said.

"We will just try to put out the best team each time and hope for no further injuries and hope we can get by in all the games. It is a matter for thought all the time what you do between matches in the training sessions while making certain we don't take too much out of the players because the games are coming so thick and fast.

"But in terms of the selection of the team, it is not that difficult. We are at such advanced stages of the FA Cup and Europa League competitions it is basically a case of trying to get your best teams out all the time and hoping they can cope with the workload."

Zoltan Gera returns to the squad. The second leg of the knockout tie will be held in the Ukraine next week with the winners facing the victors of the Juventus-Ajax tie.

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http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Shakhtar-Donetsk-stars-turfed-out-of-Harrods-for-looking-scruffy-and-suspicious-ahead-of-Europa-Cup-tie-with-Mohamed-Al-Fayed-s-Fulham-article325969.html

Shakhtar Donetsk stars turfed out of Harrods for looking scruffy and 'suspicious'

Published 23:00 17/02/10


By Neil McLeman


Fulham's millionaire opponents for tonight's Europa League tie were turned away from Harrods because they looked scruffy and "suspicious".

Shakhtar Donetsk won the UEFA Cup last season and are owned by a steel magnate once listed as the richest man in Europe.

But the squad boasting six Brazilian stars and even more gold credit cards were denied a spending spree in the Knightsbridge store owned by Fulham chairman Mohamed Al-Fayed like a bunch of chavs.

Harrods last night claimed the snub was "in the interest of health and safety".

Roy Hodgson and his team will be looking for a similar shutout of Shakhtar at Craven Cottage tonight.

A furious spokesman for the Ukrainian side, who are nicknamed the Miners, said: "The players decided to increase the earnings of one of London's reputable shops - Harrods.

"The footballers, who have money and are eager to buy a lot, were certain to leave there the big sum but the Miners weren't allowed to enter the shop.

"The staff said that the group of customers was too big and suspicious. All of them were wearing similar tracksuits. The players explained that this was the football team and they had no habit of taking tuxedos to the training camp to go shopping."

Fulham boss Roy Hodgson said: "I'm surprised to hear it. Usually the chairman is only too happy for people to spend their money in the place."

But Harrods, where Fulham players all have their own discount cards, last night admitted the Ukrainians had been stopped from entering the self-styled "most famous luxury department store in the world".

"There are periods, when the store is at its busiest, that Harrods has to take the difficult decision to deny access to tour parties and larger groups of visitors," said a statement.

"This is done in the interest of health and safety."

The irony is that Shakhtar Donetsk have bought their place among Europe's top teams through the generous backing of billionaire Rinat Akmetov.

And Hodgson, whose club are unbeaten at Craven Cottage in Europe, admitted the team currently second in the Ukrainian league will be regarded as favourites.

"Money dominates football," he said. "If you look at all the top teams in the world, they all have one thing in common. They all have enormous budgets. They can pay high transfer fees and very high wages. And Shakhtar definitely come into that category.

"Their budget would be the equivalent of the very best Premier League teams in the country and as a result they sign very good players. I don't feel like an underdog as such but for the larger football world, they would have us as the underdog and Shakhtar would be favourites because of their pedigree and our relative inexperience in Europe."

The winners will have the prize of playing the victors of the Juventus-Ajax tie in the next round.

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Ticket Collections

Thursday 18th February 2010


Fulham FC News

As a result of the high number of tickets sold over the last few days the Club is anticipating a large volume of ticket collections prior to Thursday night's UEFA Europa League game against FC Shakhtar Donetsk.

If you have already purchased your tickets for Thursday's game and have tickets to collect these can be picked up from 9am on the day of the game via the Ticket Office or from ticket collection units from 5:30pm until kick-off (8.05pm). 

We ask supporters to arrive no later than two hours before kick-off to collect their tickets.

To avoid congestion at the turnstiles all supporters are kindly asked to enter the stadium and take their seats as early as possible on Thursday night.


Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/ShakhtarTicketCollections.aspx#ixzz0fsoWZVGA

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Home Advantage


Thursday 18th February 2010


Fulham FC News


European football comes to Craven Cottage once again on Thursday night when the Whites take on current UEFA Cup holders Shakhtar Donetsk in the UEFA Europa League. With a tough away leg in Ukraine just a week later, Fulham defender Aaron Hughes stressed the need to secure the best result possible on home soil.

"It's important that you try not to give away any goals in the home game," Hughes said as he looked ahead to tonight's game. "You try and keep a clean sheet first and foremost. If you can nick a goal then great. 

"Our home form is important in these competitions. When you go away, whether to Shakhtar or somewhere else, it's always difficult. So you have to get as much advantage from your home games as possible."

With the scouting work all done, the Fulham players have now familiarised themselves with their opponents.

"We've watched a little bit on DVD," Hughes explained. "We know the areas they're going to be strong in and also areas where we can take advantage - we've been working on that. 

"They've got very good technical players, they like to get the ball down and pass it. Of all the clips were saw, there weren't too many long balls being hit, it was all short, sharp stuff around the corner. We know we're in for a tough test.

"The European nights are always good fun, I've always said it's a nice break from the normal domestic season. You get to play against teams from different countries with different styles of play - against players you normally wouldn't face. 

"We've been enjoying it and now we find ourselves up against a side that's capable of winning it. They're an experienced side with lots of good technical players - so it's going to be a tough game for us."

Shakhtar Ticket News:
Matchday prices now apply for tonight's Europa League match against FC Shakhtar Donetsk, prices are as follows:

Adults £20
Concessions £15*
Children £10

Make sure you get down to Craven Cottage this evening and experience what is set to be another memorable night of European football at the Cottage (KO 8:05pm) - get your tickets now!|

* Under 21's will not be available on the gate.


Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/HughesShakhtarPreview.aspx#ixzz0fsouugxW

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A Massive Game


Thursday 18th February 2010


Fulham FC News


Roy Hodgson's squad received a huge boost last weekend when Simon Davies| completed 90 minutes against Notts County as Fulham secured their place in the Quarter Finals of the FA Cup.

It has been a season of injury frustration for Davies but the Welshman now appears to be firing on all cylinders after two impressive performances last week.

"It was the first time this season that I've played back-to-back games," said the Welsh international. "I managed 60 minutes last Tuesday which was good and it always helps when you're winning.

"The pace of the game had died off towards the end on Sunday and originally I was going to come off but I stayed on to get the 90 minutes under my belt. Hopefully that will make me stronger.

"When you're not up to full speed you're susceptible to little niggles but I felt stronger as the game went on. It made sense to push myself towards the end.

"It generally takes for or five games to get up and running but I'm enjoying it out there and it was good to score on Sunday."

Davies' return is a timely boost for Fulham as the Club faces crucial fixtures on three fronts over the next few weeks, starting with tonight's UEFA Europa League clash against Shakhtar Donetsk at the Cottage.

"I'm hoping to play a big part in the end of the season and it's exciting on all fronts," said Davies. "We're doing well in the Premier League; we're in the Quarter Finals of the FA Cup and in the last 32 of the UEFA Europa League.

"It's a massive game for the Club on Thursday and it signals how far we've come in the two years since the Manager arrived.

"You want to test yourself against the best teams in Europe and Shakhtar are one of the best teams – they won the competition last year so we're all eager and looking forward to testing ourselves against them."

Shakhtar Ticket News:
Matchday prices now apply for tonight's Europa League match against FC Shakhtar Donetsk, prices are as follows:

Adults £20
Concessions £15*
Children £10

Make sure you get down to Craven Cottage this evening and experience what is set to be another memorable night of European football at the Cottage (KO 8:05pm) - get your tickets now!|

* Under 21's will not be available on the gate.


Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/DaviesShakhtarChallenge.aspx#ixzz0fspBTGw2

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http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_5957029,00.html


Hodgson hopeful for Dempsey


USA international could make comeback before the summer


Last updated: 18th February 2010   

Fulham manager Roy Hodgson is optimistic star midfielder Clint Dempsey will return from injury before the end of the season.

The USA international sustained a serious knee problem in the 2-0 defeat at Blackburn in mid-January and is a doubt to face England at the World Cup in the summer.

But ahead of Fulham's Europa League first leg against Shakhtar Donetsk on Thursday, Hodgson has revealed that Dempsey's rehabilitation is going well.

The Cottagers boss said: "His progress is good and he is working very hard to recover. The medical staff are very happy with him."

Hodgson added: "It's still a long way to go until the end of the season."

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http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2010/02/18/fulham-keeper-eyes-shakhtar-success-82029-25857358/


Fulham keeper eyes Shakhtar success



Feb 18 2010

By Chris Slavin

FULHAM keeper Mark Schwarzer is relishing the return of the Europa League campaign and the prospect of going all the way to the final four years after his old club Middlesbrough's success in the same competition.

Schwarzer helped Steve McLaren's side upset the odds by reaching the final of the Uefa Cup in 2006, and the Whites are faced with a similar task this season of knocking out Europe's big guns if they want to go all the way.

But Fulham first have to come through their last-16 tie against Shakhtar Donetsk with the first leg tonight at Craven Cottage.

And the Australian cannot wait to be back involved in the competition.

"It is very exciting to play in Europe," he said. "I have played in European competition before and got to the final with Middlesbrough. It is a fantastic competition to be involved in, it will be tough for us but who knows what can happen?

"It is tough for us playing on a lot of fronts this season in different competitions, but the squad has been strengthened and the ability is there within the squad, without a doubt."

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http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/leagues/premierleague/fulham/7258734/Shakhtar-Donetsk-refused-Harrods-entry-as-Europa-League-tie-with-Fulham-looms.html

Shakhtar Donetsk refused Harrods entry as Europa League tie with Fulham looms

Shakhtar Donetsk were offered an added incentive to continue the defence of the Europa League at Craven Cottage on Thursday after their players were refused entry to Harrods – owned by Fulham chairman Mohamed Fayed – on the grounds of health and safety.

By John Ley


Published: 7:15AM GMT 18 Feb 2010


Shakhtar, last season's Uefa Cup winners, have been based in St Albans, Hertfordshire, and on Sunday watched Fulham's 4-0 FA Cup win over Notts County, but left after the third goal.

On Tuesday Shakhtar, who beat Werder Bremen in last year's final, visited London's West End but on arrival at Harrods the squad, among the best paid players in eastern Europe and most wearing black club tracksuits, were turned away from one of the world's most exclusive stores.

Sport on television A spokesman for the Ukrainians said: "The staff said that the group of customers was too big and suspicious. All of them were wearing similar tracksuits.

"The players explained that this was a football team and they had no habit of taking tuxedos to the training camp to go shopping. But those explanations were fruitless."

The players went elsewhere and the spokesman added: "The players bought presents for their relatives in another shop and its owner was very glad."

A spokesman for Harrods attempted to explain the embarrassing faux-pas when he said: "There are periods, when the store is at its busiest, that Harrods has to take the difficult decision to deny access to tour parties and larger groups of visitors.

"This is done in the interest of health and safety. Needless to say, we do not wish to offend or upset visitors when making these decisions."

Roy Hodgson, the Fulham manager, was unaware of the events and said: "I'm surprised to hear about this. Normally, the chairman loves people to spend their money with him."

There could more money heading the chairman's way if Fulham maintain their success in cup competitions. Despite a long list of injuries this season Fulham, unbeaten in 12 home European games, are in the last eight of the FA Cup and are now bidding for a place in the final 16 of the newly-formed Europa League.

Hodgson said: "We want to do well in this competition. I guess in my mind we are the underdogs against Shakhtar because they have played in the Champions League and are the current holders of what was the Uefa Cup. They have a big budget and can attract players like the top English, Spanish and Italian clubs.

"Their budget would be the equivalent of the very best Premier League teams in the country and as a result they sign very good players. They don't just get the best from their country, they get the best from the countries surrounding them and have a very good contact in Brazil. But this tournament has been and still is a great adventure for us."

As well as missing the injured John Pantsil, Paul Konchesky, Clint Dempsey, Zoltan Gera, Kagisho Dikgacoi and Andrew Johnson, Hodgson cannot call upon new signings Nicky Shorey or Stefano Okaka, both of whom are cup-tied having featured in the competition for Aston Villa and Roma respectively.

Probable teams

Fulham (4-4-2): Schwarzer; Baird, Hughes, Hangeland, Kelly; Duff, Murphy, Etuhu, Davies; Elm, Zamora.
Shakhtar Donetsk (4-5-1): Pyatov; Hyubschman, Kucher, Rakitsky, Rat; Srna, Fernandinho, Jadson, Willian, Ilsinho; Adriano.
Referee: S Gumienny (Belgium).

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Europa Range


Thursday 18th February 2010



Fulham FC News


With Fulham's participation in the UEFA Europa League extended in to the knock-out stages, the Club is proud to offer supporters a variety of Europa League branded Fulham merchandise to choose from in our online store and in the stadium and Fulham road stores.

Fulham take on Shakhtar Donetsk, the current UEFA Cup Champions, on Thursday night and now you can own the one and only official Europa League Scarf| commemorating this historic match for Fulham Football Club.  Pick one up| before tonight's match!

Also to choose from are poloshirts, key rings, mugs and more. There is something for every Fulham supporter.

For those fans popping down to Craven Cottage to attend the match on Thursday, you'll have an opportunity to drop into either Club store to pick up some fantastic products from Fulham's Europa League retail range.

 

Check out the full range in our online store today.|

Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2009/October/EuropaRetailRange.aspx#ixzz0fsqT7A5D

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http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/standard-sport/football/article-23807147-shakhtar-donetsk-dont-scare-us-insists-fulhams-dickson-etuhu.do


Shakhtar Donetsk don't scare us, insists Fulham's Dickson Etuhu



David Smith


18.02.10


Dickson Etuhu's optimism knows no bounds, as evidenced by his declaration that Fulham have nothing to fear from Shakhtar Donetsk at Craven Cottage tonight.

This is the same Shakhtar who, 12 months ago, knocked out Tottenham on the way to winning the last UEFA Cup before that competition became the Europa League.

The same Shakhtar owned by Ukrainian banker Rinat Akhmetov, said to be the richest man in Europe, whose wealth has financed a skilled Brazilian midfield of Fernandinho, Jadson, Willian and Ilsinho plus prolific Brazilian striker Luiz Adriano.

And the same Shakhtar who arrived in London fresh from a Ukrainian League winter break which began on 12 December.

During the intervening period, Fulham played 14 tiring games in which they lost Clint Dempsey, Andy Johnson, Paul Konchesky and Kagisho Dikgacoi to long-term injuries.

But it is a brave man who argues with Etuhu, the imposing Nigeria international who has re-established his successful partnership with fellow central midfielder Danny Murphy after returning from the Africa Cup of Nations.

The 27-year-old said: "Some people say Shakhtar come here as the favourites, and we have to respect that they are a very good side. They're well organised and have good players.

"They will be strong, of course they are, they won the UEFA Cup last season. But we don't fear them.

"We face some of the best players and best teams in the world every week in the Premier League. And teams don't get much bigger than Manchester United and Chelsea.

"It's a different type of football, sure. But we have a lot of experience with a lot of our players playing European and international football. So that shouldn't be a problem."

At least not at the Cottage, which Roy Hodgson's team has turned into something of a fortress this season.

But it is vital Fulham get something from the first leg — either Ajax or Juventus await the overall winner of the tie in the last 16 — because Shakhtar are also handy at home, having won all eight of their Ukrainian League games played this term either at the RSK Olimpiyskiy Stadium or, since late autumn, their new base at the Donbass Arena.

Hodgson shares Etuhu's confidence, even though he concedes that Fulham will start tonight's clash as underdogs. He said: "In terms of European pedigree and European success, Shakhtar are clearly ahead of us.

"But I still think we've done well. Roma are second in the Italian League but we certainly weren't inferior to them in the two matches we played against them in the group stage.

"We played well against Basel, who are also a top European team. So I have every confidence we will play well."

Zoltan Gera is fit after missing five games through injury. But Hodgson has a problem at left-back with Konchesky failing in a brave attempt to make the squad and Nicky Shorey, on loan from Aston Villa, being Cup-tied.

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Europa Team News


Thursday 18th February 2010



Fulham FC News


Fulham's squad will be strengthened by the return of Zoltan Gera for tonight's UEFA Europa League clash against Shakhtar Donetsk, although Roy Hodgson will be without several key players for tonight's clash against the current UEFA Cup holders.

"Zoltan Gera will be back on Thursday night," Hodgson confirmed ahead of the game. "We were hoping to have Paul Konchesky but that hasn't worked out. We were hoping he'd recover for this game but at the moment it looks like he won't.

"Zoltan Gera has returned though and other than that we have the long term ones; Clint Dempsey, John Pantsil, Andrew Johnson and Kagisho Dikgacoi.

"We only have senior 18 players, with Konchesky, available for the game. If Konchesky doesn't play we're down to 17 plus one of the guys from the Academy.

"In terms of selecting a Team it's not that difficult. We're at such an advanced stage of the UEFA Europa League competition and FA Cup it's a case of trying to get your best Team out all the time and hoping the players can cope with the workload."

Hodgson has successfully balanced the demands of additional cup competition matches on his squad with great success this season and is clearly enjoying the experience of guiding Fulham to the later stages of the UEFA Europa Cup.

"We think it's fantastic to be a part of this competition," said Hodgson. "It's a great adventure and a feather in the cap of Fulham Football Club. We've taken all games seriously and when I had a bigger squad in the early days I could change things around and give people a chance to play and use the freshest legs for those matches - fortunately that was a policy that paid off.

"Now we're in the final stages of the competition we're playing teams of the highest order – you don't get much higher than the current holders of the trophy. So now it's up to us to try and put out the best Team we can - we'll have to bite the bullet if the workload that these extra matches bring about affects us in the league matches."

Hodgson's Team face the current UEFA Cup holders this evening at the Cottage and after preparing meticulously for the tie, the players will enter the fray this evening looking to gain a home leg advantage over their Ukrainian opponents.

"We know their [Shakhtar Donetsk] style. It's very much a passing style based on the movement and ability of their Brazilian players who play behind the striker and of course their ability to use the wide areas with their offensive full backs.

"We know perfectly well having watched them from the videos we've watched and the large number of match reports we've had on them recently.

"We think, certainly the coaching staff, and we hope we pass this over to the players, we have a fairly good idea of the type of football they play - and they play it well. They have good quality players and knowing what a team tries to do and watching them play is one thing, but combating it always another."

Shakhtar Ticket News:
Matchday prices now apply for tonight's Europa League match against FC Shakhtar Donetsk, prices are as follows:

Adults £20
Concessions £15*
Children £10
Make sure you get down to Craven Cottage this evening and experience what is set to be another memorable night of European football at the Cottage (KO 8:05pm) - get your tickets now!|

* Under 21's will not be available on the gate.


Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/EuropeanTeamNews.aspx#ixzz0fsr7oqlf

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Matchday Travel Warning


Thursday 18th February 2010


Fulham FC News


Supporters travelling to the Cottage this evening for the Club's UEFA Europa League clash should be aware that current gasworks are causing delays in both directions on the A3.

The works are taking place on Roehampton Lane before the Robin Hood roundabout and at present only one lane is open in both directions.

The Club encourages supporters to allow plenty of time to travel to Craven Cottage on Thursday evening.



Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/ShakhtarTravelNotice.aspx#ixzz0fsrNpCcb

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Shakhtar Programme Preview


Thursday 18th February 2010


Fulham FC News


Thursday night sees Craven Cottage play host to the biggest European fixture in Fulham FC history yet as UEFA Cup holders Shakhtar Donetsk come to London in the last 32 of the UEFA Europa League...

With a team full of established European internationals and skilful Brazilians, Shakhtar's visit will make for an intriguing and entertaining spectacle that will be talked about for decades to come.

So pick up a permanent keepsake of the occasion, the official matchday programme.

Complete with a special UEFA Europa League collectors' edition design, the 68-page magazine is full of all the essential matchday information.

The perfect game night complement, this very special issue includes:

Exclusive insight from Manager Roy Hodgson .
Danny Murphy's views on Sunday's FA Cup win.
Northern Ireland captain Aaron Hughes reflects on the European adventure to date, and sets his sights on continuing it for a while yet.
The complete low-down on our visitors Shakhtar Donetsk .
A photographic account of our UEFA Euopa League journey to date.
A guest column from Whites defender of our 2002 Intertoto Cup triumph, Abdeslam Ouaddou .
Rewind with Fulham expert Ian McCulloch as he digs out a matchday programme from that Intertoto Cup run.
Match action from the memorable Group stage finale in Basel, and the recent Premier League draw at Bolton.
A flick through the photo archives of recent squad addition Nicky Shorey .
Through the ranks profile on Development Squad starlet Alex Smith .
Unprecedented fan interaction and tonnes of fun for younger fans too.
Plus, so much more besides!
The brilliant matchday publication costs just £3 and will be on sale in and around the ground from two-hours before kick-off.

If you miss your copy outside then look out for sellers on the Putney and Hammersmith Terrace, or at half-time from the programme room situated inside the Johnny Haynes Stand by Block E (opposite Turnstile 24).


Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/ShakhtarProgrammePreview.aspx#ixzz0fsrdUwt5

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http://www.thisiswesternmorningnews.co.uk/football/Stockdale-stay-Argyle/article-1842482-detail/article.html

Stockdale to stay at Argyle

Thursday, February 18, 2010, 09:00


PLYMOUTH Argyle head coach Paul Mariner has hailed the news that goalkeeper David Stockdale is remaining at Home Park for at least another month.

The Pilgrims borrowed the highly promising 24-year-old from Fulham in January. The initial loan transfer expires today, but Mariner confirmed after Tuesday's 1-1 Coca-Cola Championship draw against Swansea City at Home Park that the deal had been extended by another month.

Stockdale cannot stay with Plymouth until the end of the season. If the transfer is extended for a third and final month, he will have to return to Craven Cottage after Argyle's penultimate Championship game at Nottingham Forest on April 24. Mariner is not looking that far ahead, though. For now, he is just happy to retain the services of the Yorkshireman.

"David is returning for one month, and we're trying to roll it on from that," the head coach revealed. Mariner also thanked Fulham manager Roy Hodgson and goalkeeping coach Mike Kelly – who had a spell as Argyle boss 33 years ago – for their help in sorting out Stockdale's continued stay in Devon.

"We're happy with what Roy and his staff have sorted out for us," Mariner said. "We have a fantastic rapport with Roy and Mike Kelly, who is his mentor. Mike speaks very highly of him, and we're very thankful to them for letting him out."

Stockdale won the match sponsors' man-of-the-match accolade on Tuesday. He made two fine saves in quick succession to prevent Spanish striker Gorka Pintado giving Swansea the lead early in the game, and then he denied Darren Pratley when the midfielder had the chance to double the visitors' advantage in the second half.

"He made three saves," Mariner recalled. "Two early on, with his feet, and the one late on with his hand, which was a very good save. I think he has improved the team, he helps the back four, so I'm delighted that he joined us.

"He has fitted into the squad very well," the head coach added. "He's an amiable lad, and he works very hard at his game. I think he has proven to everybody that he's commanding in the box. He's a young goalkeeper, he still has things to learn, but he understands that."

Stockdale was left exposed when Pratley ran through Argyle's rearguard to score Swansea's goal in the opening minute of the second period. "We had the ball on the halfway line, and we gave it away," Mariner admitted.

"It was a fantastic, weighted pass through to the runner, and he took it very well, but, from our viewpoint, a ball going through the heart of our defence is very poor.

"We'll have to assess what happened there," added the head coach, who was more impressed with the way in which his players dealt with the task of restoring parity. "The team were shell- shocked for five minutes, and then they responded with a bit of a grandstand finish towards the end."

Argyle will resume their quest for points to lift themselves out of the Championship relegation zone on Saturday, when they entertain Leicester City at Home Park. The Pilgrims languish in 23rd place in the table. The Foxes, who are in sixth position, drew 1-1 at Bristol City on Tuesday.

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http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11681_5956903,00.html


Hodgson does his homework



Cottagers ready for Euro test



By Chris Burton   


Last updated: 18th February 2010   



Roy Hodgson is calling on fans to enter 'Barclays Around the World in 90 Minutes' a global fan competition to find the best Barclays Premier League match-day experience of any fan in the world. Fans have until 22nd March to enter via the competition website - www.barclaysfootball.com

Roy Hodgson has told skysports.com that Fulham have done their homework on Shakhtar Donetsk.

The Cottagers have been paired against last season's UEFA Cup winners in the last 32 of the Europa League.

The first leg of the intriguing continental contest takes place at Craven Cottage on Thursday, offering Fulham an opportunity to further enhance a promising campaign.

Hodgson is under no illusion as to the size of the task facing his side, but insists he is fully prepared for the relatively unknown quantity that is Eastern European opposition.

"It is interesting. Once you reach the round of 32 it is always going to be interesting and on paper very tough," he told skysports.com.

"To get the reigning champions and a team which is of great interest to everyone in Europe, because we don't come across Ukrainian or Russian football that often, it is a very interesting draw for us. We are looking forward to the game, albeit that we know we have a very tough test ahead.

"The Premier League is our bread and butter, and that is what keeps us afloat and where the largest part of our income is, but on the other hand it was great last year to finish so high up that we got a place in Europe and it's been a really good experience so far getting to this last 32.

"We have enjoyed all the games and all the experiences and I think it is helping us to grow as a club. It is giving some of our players, not so much the ones who play regular internationals but the others, a taste of European football which they might not have got otherwise."

Routine
Shakhtar are currently in the middle of their winter break, with the Ukrainian season shutting down in early December, but Hodgson does not buy into the belief that a lack of action could see them arrive in England a little ring rusty.

"It's difficult to say. I think it is a question for them whether they think the rest has been advantageous or disadvantageous," he said.

"I have been in that situation many times with Scandinavian teams, Malmo in particular, where we have got to the quarter-finals of competitions or the last 32 and we have come out of a break.

"I have to say that it never affected us that badly but there is no doubt that we are more in the routine of competition than they are, despite the fact that they have been out of the country a long time trying to find grass pitches and worthy opponents."

Hodgson is not a man to leave things to chance, renowned for throwing himself into his work, and despite Shakhtar's recent lack of playing time he is fully versed on what to expect from Mircea Lucescu's side.

He said: "We have seen quite a lot of reports and videos on them. We have studied video of their match against Tottenham last year and we have studied video of their final matches in the Ukrainian league, not least their one against Dynamo Kiev, and we have looked at videos and reports from the recent Marbella tournament which they have taken part in.

"We feel we have a fairly good idea of who they are and how they try to play. But of course all of us teams in the Premier League playing in Europe, we have always got important games before and after so one can only be focused on the European game for a short period of time i.e. after the cup game against Notts County and before the league game against Birmingham."

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European glory? Fulham are concentrating on FA Cup, insists Aaron Hughes

By Sportsmail Reporter


Last updated at 10:16 AM on 18th February 2010


Comments (0) Add to My Stories Fulham defender Aaron Hughes admits he would rather win the FA Cup than the Europa League.

The Cottagers are chasing silverware on two fronts with their next assignment coming in Europe against Shakhtar Donetsk in the first leg of the round of 32.

A 4-0 thumping of Notts County on Sunday has also sent them galloping into the quarter-finals of the FA Cup.

Hughes insists that for Fulham to be contemplating silverware is remarkable, but looks closer to home when comes to his preference.

'I'd rather win the FA Cup because it's a domestic competition and as a kid growing up it's the one you think about,' he said.

'For us to even talk about winning either of them is a massive thing. But the FA Cup still has that something special, especially now it's back at Wembley. It's a massive day.

'That said, if we could progress in the Europa League I wouldn't say no.'

Fulham are enjoying another fine season but Hughes admits Shakhtar, the reigning champions, have the capacity to dent their ambitions.

'European nights are always good fun. They're a nice break from the domestic season and the teams you face there,' he said. 'You face new teams from different countries who have different styles of play.

'We've been enjoying it and giving it a good go. Now we find ourselves up against a side that has shown they're capable of winning it.

'They're a good, technical side and it will be a tough game, but we'll give our best.'

Fulham could conceivably qualify for the Champions League if a new proposal to introduce a play off for the fourth qualifying spot is introduced.

The idea would see the teams placed fourth down to seventh battle it out for a place in Europe's most prestigious competition, but Hughes is sceptical over the idea.
'If you work hard enough to finish in fourth place over the course of a season, you deserve to qualify,' he said.

'Having accumulated enough points to finish fourth, to then have to play another couple of games would be tough.'


Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1251916/European-glory-Fulham-concentrating-FA-Cup-insists-Aaron-Hughes.html?ITO=1490#ixzz0fssv7KgE

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FULHAM v Shakhtar Donetsk: Paul Konchesky set to miss crunch last 32 Europa League tie

By Sportsmail Reporter


Last updated at 10:22 AM on 18th February 2010


Fulham defender Paul Konchesky is unlikely to be available for tonight's Europa League clash with Shakhtar Donetsk.

Konchesky has returned to light training after recovering from his foot injury
but the first leg of the last-32 match appears too early for his comeback.

Zoltan Gera returns from his knee problem but long-term casualties Kagisho Dikgacoi (ankle), Andrew Johnson, Clint Dempsey and John Pantsil (all knee) are out.

Provisional squad: Schwarzer, Zuberbuhler, Baird, Kelly, Stoor, Hangeland, Hughes, Smalling, Shorey, Gera, Duff, Murphy, Greening, Davies, Etuhu, Riise, Nevland, Okaka, Elm, Zamora.


Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1251940/FULHAM-v-Shakhtar-Donetsk-Paul-Konchesky-set-miss-crunch-32-Europa-League-tie.html?ITO=1490#ixzz0fstNvHwq

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http://sport.stv.tv/football/scottish-premier/celtic/158242-celtic-form-earns-kamara-senegal-recall/

Celtic form earns Kamara Senegal recall



Diomansy Kamara's performances since moving to Celtic on loan impresses Senegal coach Amara Traore.


18 February 2010 10:43 AM


A lion once again: Kamara roars back into Senegal squad

Celtic striker Diomansy Kamara's recent form has seen him recalled to the Senegal national team. The forward, who is on loan at Parkhead, has ended his spell in the international wilderness and been named in the Senegal squad for the first time in more than two years.

Kamara joined Celtic from Fulham on transfer deadline day in a loan deal until the end of the season. Since making the move he has hit the net twice in two games for Celtic, impressing fans and pundits as well as Senegal's manager.

Amara Traore has now named the striker in his squad to play Greece in a friendly next month. Kamara will now jet out to join up with the squad after the match against Rangers on February 28.

The striker has not pulled on a Senegal jersey since the 2008 Africa Cup of Nations. Kamara, capped 40 times for his country, scored in Senegal's opening game against Tunisia but two draws and a defeat saw the Lions of Teranga exit the competition at the group stage.

After failing to gain regular first-team football under Roy Hodgson at Fulham, Kamara is clearly enjoying his time at Parkhead. While an international call-up is a welcome boost for the French-born player, he said he felt his club side could improve despite his good start in green and white.

"When new players come in you need to train more to get to know each other and play properly," he said. "So in a few games you will see Celtic stronger than now.

"We have played a few games together and have improved.

"It was an unbelievable feeling to score. When you are a striker, you look to score early at a club to give yourself confidence."

Kamara was reunited with Tony Mowbray after playing under the manager in his time at West Bromwich Albion. Kamara was named in the PFA Championship team of the year before being sold to Fulham for £6 million in 2007.

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http://www.sportinglife.com/football/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/10/02/18/SOCCER_Birmingham.html

MAIK TAYLOR KEEN TO STAY AT BLUES

By John Curtis, Press Association Sport


Maik Taylor wants extend his stay at Birmingham when his current contract ends this summer - even though he has lost his first-team spot to on-loan Joe Hart.

The Northern Ireland keeper played a key role in helping City gain promotion to the Barclays Premier League last season.

But he has made only one top-flight start during the current campaign when Hart was unable to play against his parent club, Manchester City.

Blues boss Alex McLeish is hoping Hart will be able to extend his stay at St. Andrew's for at least another season but Taylor is still keen to remain at the midlands club.

Taylor said: "It has been frustrating because, as a professional, everybody wants to play but unfortunately, as a goalkeeper, only one player can take that position.

"At the moment Joe has got the jersey and is doing fantastically well which is making it extremely difficult for me to get into the team.

"But it would be great if I can continue at Birmingham. I will have to sit down with the club at some stage and still feel I have got a lot to offer on the playing front.

"In the only league game I played, against Manchester City, I was really pleased with my own performance.

"I would prefer to be in the team but, should Joe's form dip over time, hopefully the manager would be fair to me and give me my opportunity.

"Other than not being in the team, I am absolutely happy with everything. My family are settled so it would be great to continue at Birmingham."

Taylor believes Hart's current form will bolster his chances of being part of the England World Cup squad in South Africa in June.

He said: "I have the utmost respect for Joe and he is certainly doing himself the world of good in terms of going to the World Cup this summer. He is a great lad and works extremely hard."

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http://www.skysports.com/football/match_preview/0,19764,11065_3227685,00.html


Fulham v Shakhtar preview



Fulham face reigning champions in last 32 of Europa League


Last updated: 18th February 2010   


Fulham's European adventure continues with a home clash against Shakhtar Donetsk on Thursday evening.

The Cottagers started out on the long road to Hamburg at the end of July and had to make it through two qualifying rounds just to take their place in the group phase.

Manager Roy Hodgson has had to juggle the demands of continental action with a gruelling Premier League campaign as well as an FA Cup run and a number of key players have been struck down by injury.

Fulham have nevertheless managed to maintain a strong challenge on the domestic front and can now devote their full attention to the first leg of an intriguing Europa League tie.

Shakhtar Donetsk lifted the Uefa Cup last season and are among the favourites to go all the way again after topping their group.

Fulham will have to be at their best to overcome the Ukrainians and advance to the last 16, but Hodgson has been doing his homework and will have briefed his players in meticulous detail.

Full-back Paul Konchesky is unlikely to be available for the Craven Cottage clash.

He has returned to light training following a foot injury but is still not back to full fitness and the midweek match appears to have come too early for him.

Zoltan Gera returns from his knee problem but long-term casualties Kagisho Dikgacoi (ankle), Andrew Johnson, Clint Dempsey and John Pantsil (all knee) are all out.

Shakhtar news
Mircea Lucescu does not have the same injury problems as his Fulham counterpart as Shakhtar have not played a competitive game since before Christmas.

The Ukrainian league does not restart until the end of February and Lucescu will hope his players are refreshed rather than rusty.

Captain Darijo Srna does not believe Shakhtar's lack of action will be a major factor and is in confident mood ahead of the encounter.

"No doubt it will be a very hard match, but I am positive that we'll pass this test," Srna told Uefa's official website.

"Fulham are really solid at home, they don't just defend in London. They need to score, so it will be an open affair.

"I believe Shakhtar are more skilful, we are better with the ball. If we can combine those qualities with discipline, everything will be fine."