Fulham travel to France to face Spanish side
Espanyol on Saturday after coming through 1-0 winners in a tricky midweek encounter
against Crystal Palace.
Having finished 9th in last season’s La Liga campaign, Espanyol will represent
a return to high-quality European opposition for Fulham. The Whites’ last
match against European opponents this pre-season was against Sparta Prague –
a resolute an well-organised outfit.
Espanyol are expected to pose Jean Tigana’s men a different set of questions
altogether. With manager Francisco Flores, a recognised fan of fast, flowing
and open football – supporters making the short journey across the Channel
to Le Touquet should be treated to an attractive game.
New boy Edwin Van der Sar could be in line for his Fulham debut against the
Spanish side, however, the match could also give Fulham fans another look at
the impressive Steed Malbranque.
With Fulham now starting to pick up the pace in their pre-season matches, Espanyol
could well find themselves under sustained periods of pressure. Nonetheless,
Fulham’s defence will have to be well prepared, as they could be facing
possibly the most dangerous strike pairing of the pre-season schedule to date.
Espanyol’s leading duo of Juan Francisco Palencia (pictured) and Raul Tamudo
form a strike partnership full of skill, speed and goals. Palencia is a full
Mexican international whilst Tamudo, who almost completed a £12 million
to Glasgow Rangers last year, is a player who will require close attention.
Jean Tigana is expected to have a full squad available for selection.
Source fulham fc