There seems to be a growing realisation that Clint Dempsey is one of Fulham’s most important players. In the comments below, Lydia was saying that watching the highlights from Thursday’s game she was struck by just how important keeping Dempsey would be.
That’s why this is such great news. Predictably, the Sun leads with more Hangeland-to-Arsenal talk (but there’s very little new in that article), but the fact that Dempsey wants to sign a new four-year contract is a fantastic boost on the eve of the season. Not just because his existing deal was running down and there were rumours of interest from Everton, but also because Dempsey has already improved markedly from the player Hodgson inherited. If he works at his game and continues to develop under Hodgson, he could be even more of a star than he is already down by the Thames.
It’s that potential for improvement – as well as the unexpected – that makes him such a key player. The rest of the world caught a glimpse of what Dempsey can offer at the Confederations Cup. Let’s hope that we see it on a regular basis for many years to come.
haha I get a mention! Its true though….
Yeah, you’re famous now 🙂
Got to say that Dempsey’s improvement has really impressed him over the last 18 months or so. I thought he was a bit too much of a luxury for the Premier League when he arrived but he’s really adapted to the English game. I’d now go as far as to say he’d be one of the first names on my teamsheet now so him signing a new contract would be terrific news.
Hello, came across this site through your MFUSA profile on Eddie Johnson a bit back. As an American football fan and an avid Liverpool supporter (don’t blame a young boy for falling in love with a young Michael Owen :P) I probably follow Fulham FC closer than any of the other non top 4 English sides due to its American connections.
Best of luck this season!
Hello Jeff,
Thanks for checking in with us here and I appreciate your best wishes.
I can’t fault your admiration for Michael Owen (I remember that France ’98 goal in St. Ettiene with great fondness) but fear Liverpool might fall short in the title face again this year.
Nice to hear that you look out for Fulham’s results. I hope that Clint has another fantastic season and that EJ could prove a few of his critics wrong and secure a place on the plane to South Africa with Bradley’s squad.