Fulham Premier League Preview 2013/14
Fulham The Al Fayed era has come to an end with their new sugar daddy, Shahid Khan at the Fulham helm going into the new season. Fulham's Premier League performances during the Al Fayed years would be best described as solid rather than spectacular, and their pre season signings would appear to follow suit. With Mark Schwarzer having departed to warm the bench at The Bridge, Fulham have recruited Dutch international Maarten Stekelenburg as the man to fill his gloves. The addition of on loan midfield maverick Adel Taraabt could prove an intelligent piece of business if his old boss Martin Jol can maximise his potential. The Moroccan showed glimpses of his true class last season with QPR but the jury is still out, with his temperemant still in question. Fernando Amorebieta and Derek Boateng will add steel and experience to last season's side, arriving from Athletic Bilbao and Dnipro respectively. Expect Jol to further strengthen ahead of the new season, with a centre forward a priority. The stand out player from last season had to be Dimitar Berbatov. The Bulgarian seems to coast through games in 3rd gear, but has such undoubted class, that he still proves a class above his opponents on his day. While Berbatov will never change his style, he will always pose a threat with his eye for goal and ability in unlocking defences. But for Berbatov's input last season, Fulham could have found themselves in real trouble and I expect him to play a pivotal role again this time around. If Jol can bring in a 15-20 goal a season man alongside him, perhaps in the Defoe or Bent mould, then Fulham fans can expect another season of solidity. Without Berbatov firing, I do have concerns for Fulham, as 'man for man' they can look distinctly average in what is a very competetive league. It is not yet clear how much money Khan will let Jol play with pre deadline day, but while the Fulham boss will not expect any outgoings, he will be keen to add to his numbers to help keep them afloat. While many clubs would be envious of Fulham's fairly trouble free time in the top flight, the Cottagers fans will be hoping for an improvement on last season's 12th place finish, with the hope of a trophy to break their run of mediocrity. Player to watch - Dimitar Berbatov Premier League position - 15th