Fulham boss Martin Jol admits he is relieved that captain Brede Hangeland has signed a new contract in time to face derby rivals QPR – who were at the front of the queue to buy him, writes Chris Hatherall.
Hangeland was heavily linked with a move to Loftus Road, but agreed a new two-year contract to keep him with the Cottagers until at least 2015, with an option to extend it a year.
"We are ever so satisfied that he signed his contract because you never know," said Jol prior to tomorrow's match between the sides.
"It was quite challenging trying to keep him. I thought I could lose him – and he was a tower of strength this year, last year and before I came here. I always thought he wanted to stay, but you never know.
"He was on a free at the end of the year and it took a long time. But we dideverything and in the end it was a happy outcome.
"He came to sign it on Thursday and it was a relief. He is one of the best players in the division, he is our skipper and a very nice man. So, we're very pleased to keep him."
Hangeland's decision is in stark contrast to Bobby Zamora, who quit mid-table Fulham for a relegation battle at QPR, tempted by a bigger contract. But Jol feels the deal has worked out well.
"Bobby wanted to move," he insisted. "He thought he could help QPR and, if he's fit, he can help any team as he's a good striker."
The Rangers boss takes his rock-bottom side to west London rivals Fulham tomorrow, desperate for a victory to give them the slightest chance of survival.
"That's what you have to do. I never turn off, I am always on the phone or thinking about football and the team, but you have to handle it.
And the former Spurs and West Ham boss believes solid form in the capital could be his saving grace, after getting wins at home to Fulham and at Chelsea already this season.
"We drew with Tottenham at home and we drew at West Ham, so I think we are unbeaten in London – and I hope that continues."
No comments:
Post a Comment