I think it’s fair to say that Martin Jol’s Fulham surprised everybody with a ninth place finish (joint on points with underachievers Liverpool). One of the major reasons for this success was American forward Clint Dempsey. The marauding 29-year-old scored 23 goals for the Cottagers in 46 games and finished fourth in the FWA Footballer of the Year list. His stunning free-kick against Sunderland in the final home game of the season also made him the first American to register 50 Premier League goals.
In short – it’s quite clear that he’s the real deal.
Unfortunately, Fulham fans seem to have accepted that he won’t be remain in Martin Jol’s squad next season. The player himself has told the Press that he’s ready to move on and take his career to the next level. Speaking some time back to Sports Illustrated he revealed where he wanted to take his career next: “the fact remains that I want to play in Champions League. I want to play at the highest level possible. I want to do as much as I can and look back and say I made the most of all the opportunities I’ve had. I’m always going to want to play in Champions League. It’s something that I’ve never done. I want to test myself.”
This of course has put many of Dempsey’s suitors into a fervour. The Daily Mail claims that Arsenal and Liverpool are both interested in making a move for the American, with the Gunner’s looking to test the waters first. He’s now got just one year left on his contract and if either side came in with a fair offer, you’d think that Fulham would be inclined to sell.
Dempsey strikes me as a perfect addition for the Gunners. He’s got the kind of versatility that Arsene Wenger seems to love – given that he can play in the centre forward role, just behind the striker, or on either wing. Best of all – he can score goals from any position. Arsenal are crying out for a goalscoring midfielder to take the burden of their strikers and Dempsey could be just the ticket.
People tend to be quite snobbish about players making the step up from lower League clubs to top four competitors. Many doubted Antonio Valencia’s ability to break into this Manchester United side following his move from Wigan but he’s now widely regarded as one of the best wingers in world footballer. Besides, hasn’t Dempsey shown enough to suggest that he’s capable of making the step up?
At 29-years-old he’s earned his opportunity and Arsenal seem to be the perfect fit. Best of all, he wouldn’t cost a fortune – so surely Wenger’s sniffing around?
Introducing the neat little app that’ll pay you to view content tailored to your interests:
ThisisFutbol.com are seeking new writers to join the team! If you’re passionate about football, drop us a line at “thisisfutbol.com@snack-media.com” to learn more.
The knock against Dempsey is his age. I also think people are a bit snobbish about American footballers, but that could work in our favor as it keeps his price down. I think he’s earned the right to play for one of the top 4. I hope its Arsenal. Why take a risk on a “star” player from outside the league who might not be able to make the transition (or might take a year to adjust)?
Clint demsey will be a perfect,wondaful,excellent and great addition to our squad.he is an intelligent player that knows how to position his self 4 goals.with is addition in d squad we will have optional goal scorers in d squad.for instance,if demsey was playin ramseys position in d squad,surely we will have goals from him.pls,wenger buy demsey to d squad,so dat we can compete with other teams 4 trophies nxt season.
He would be a great squad player, I would also like Moses from Wigan