After two tough trips to the city of Liverpool, each bringing a differing result, we`re back at Craven Cottage this Sunday for our last home game of the season and our penultimate Premier League game. Can Fulham finish their campaign with a flourish? Let`s hope so.
Vital Quotes:
It`s widely expected that the boss will be back for this clash having been laid low with a chest infection that caused him to miss the trips to Everton and Liverpool.
Despite the infection Martin Jol appears to be in fine form and has spoken about Liverpool`s owners apparent interest in Clint Dempsey, remarking ahead of the game,
“If a manager does that it`s different as it`s a tap-up. If it`s an owner, he probably does not know the rules.”
“Hopefully, he will sign a contract to keep him here for the next three years. If not, he`s still our player; no club has made an offer.”
Glad to hear it.
Fulham Team News:
Martin Jol goes into this fixture without several of his squad with Grygera, Ruiz, Sidwell and Johnson all missing, much the same as the last two games then!
Player to watch: Clint Dempsey
Speculation about his future increases on a daily basis so savour this last home match of the 2011/2012 season as it may be his last in a Fulham shirt, at Craven Cottage.
Sunderland Team News:
Martin O`Neil brings his Sunderland side to Craven Cottage with a mid-table position secured, having taken over form Steve Bruce in mi-season. For this fixture he is likely to be without John O`Shea and Niklas Bendtner, both of whom have foot injuries. However, Craig Gardner is available again after serving a suspension.
Player to watch: Lee Cattermole
A competitive, feisty midfielder who has a tendency to go a little too far on occasions and who picks up more cards than he should but, nevertheless, a decent player.
Match Facts & Stats
The reciprocating fixture proved to be a dull affair as Fulham scrapped their way to a 0-0 draw up at the Stadium of light, back on 19th November.
If Fulham can win this game and their last game (at Spurs) they`d finish with 55 points, which would represent a record number of points for us in a Premier League season.
Match Prediction:
I`m going for the lads to finish their home programme with a flourish and win by at least two clear goals. How`s that for confidence then!
Next Fixtures:
We finish our season with a trip to White Hart Lane, next Sunday, my how the season has, once again, flown by!
