Carrying on with the pre-season chat, TheChelseaBlog speaks to Russell, former editor of Fulham’s Cottager’s Confidential:
TheChelseaBlog: So, a new season awaits – what are you hoping to get from it?
Russell: I am looking to see if Fulham can actually build on what they accomplished last season. We ended 8th, but if it wasn’t for some key injuries, are positioning might have been a little higher.It will be tough, because we are in Europe again with a smaller squad. I am also looking to see how the club reacts to playing for another new manager. He has stated he wants to play more of an eye catching open style of play. I will be curious to see how Fulham play this season.
TCB: What do you realistically expect?
R: Realistically I am hoping for top 10, and a good run in the Europa League. That would make me happy.
TCB: Do you think the transfer window has been kind to you?
R: So far I think Jol has bought in some young promising players. Fulham really need to transition in that direction, because overall we have an older squad. He also brought in John Arne Riise who is an upgrade at left back or wherever he is playing. So far so good in the transfer window.
TCB: Is there anyone you’d give your right arm to bring in?
R: It would be Neymar, but that would never happen. I think he is the next superstar in football. Chelsea hopefully will get him someday.
TCB: Who are your most important players?
R: Fulham’s most important players would be Danny Murphy, Brede Hangeland, and Bobby Zamora. Murphy is still the rock in the middle of the field, and his presence is still very important to Fulham. Hangeland is the main man at the back. There are not many centre backs better than Brede. He is very important as well to Fulham. However, Zamora is the most important player for the team. His leadership and presence is so huge on and off the pitch. Fulham struggled badly without him last season when he was out.
TCB: What about opposition players? Which PL player worries you most?
R: Nani and David Silva are two players that last year Fulham struggled the most with.
TCB: How do you think your manager stands up against the rest?
R: I think our manager has the background to be a top manager again in the EPL. I can’t find a Spurs fan that can say a bad word about Martin Jol.
TCB: And your supporters – can they give the opposition a run for their money?
R: I think our fans are tremendous, and they are a huge factor in why Craven Cottage is a hard place for a visiting team to come in, and get a victory.
TCB: Where do you think you’ll finish this season?
R: I think we will finish once again in the top 10.
TCB: Any predictions for the top four?
R: I am going for the major upset here.The team I am predicting to win has made many changes that I think are going to pay off huge. I am predicting Liverpool to win it followed by Chelsea, Manchester United, and Manchester City.
TCB: Brilliant as ever Russell…..you even placed us second!
Blue is the colour
