Mark Schwarzer is my number one, says Fulham boss Martin Jol
The Cottagers manager labelled the Socceroos veteran as one of the best goalkeepers in Europe and made it clear he'd be first choice when he returns from injury
Fulham manager Martin Jol has made it clear that goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer is his first choice at the club despite David Stockdale's impressive recent run in the Australian's injury-enforced absence.
The 39-year-old Socceroo has been on the sidelines for the past few weeks due to a spinal injury, giving Stockdale, who had been on loan at Ipswich Town, his chance in the Cottagers first-team.
Stockdale's good form had led to speculation suggesting he'd retain his spot as first choice even when Schwarzer returned from injury.
However Jol poured cold water on those suggestions, labelling Schwarzer one of Europe's best keepers, when he spoke to reporters after Saturday's 4-0 FA Cup win over Charlton.
"With Mark Schwarzer, there was never any doubt in my mind, and in anybody's mind, that he's one of the best keepers in England, maybe in Europe. I've had a lot of good goalkeepers and he stands out," Jol said.
"It's good to know that I've got another goalkeeper who's got more and more experience. That is why we put him on loan at Ipswich. He did well there, so it's only good for his experience that he came in and did well, like last year, but Mark Schwarzer is Mark Schwarzer.
"Now we play with David, but Mark Schwarzer will come back in the next three or four weeks.
"I can certainly tell you Stockdale makes saves that are unbelievable, but I can remember the Liverpool game when we were 1-0 up and there was a certain goal that Mark Schwarzer saved, so we've got two very good good goalkeepers."