Fulham F.C

Fulham Football Club is a professional football club based In Fulham, London. The club was founded in 1879, making it one of the oldest football clubs in London. The team currently competes in the Premier League, the top tier of English Football. 

History

Fulham was originally founded by worshippers at the Church of England on Star Road, West Kensington, under the name Fulham St Andrew's Church Sunday School F.C. in 1888, the club shortened its name to Fulham F.C. Fulham's early years were spent playing in various amateur leagues before becoming professional in 1898, and they joined the Southern League 1899.

Fulham joined the Football League in 1907 and has since had an inconsistent record, bouncing between divisions. However, in recent decades, they have established themselves in the top two tiers of English football. The club had its most successful period in the early 2000s, gaining promotion to the Premier League in 2001 under manager Jean Tigana.

Achievements and Notable Moments 

Fulham has never won a major domestic trophy but has had several notable achievements. One of the Club's most significant successes comes in 2010 when Fulham reached the UEFA Europe League final, losing 2-1 to Atletico Madrid after extra time. This European campaign remains the highlight of Fulham's modern history. 

The club has also experienced promotion to the Premier League on several occasions, most notably in 2001, 2018, and 2020. Fulham's highest League finish come in the 2008-09 Premier League season, where they finished 7th under manager Roy Hodgson, earning a place in the Europe League. 

Stadium 

Fulham's home ground is Craven Cottage, a historic Stadium located on the banks of the River Thames. The Stadium has been the Club's home since 1896, though it has undergone several renovations.  Craven Cottage is known for its iconic riverside setting and the Johnny Haynes Stabd, named after one of Fulham's famous players. 

 Rivalries 

Fulham has a notable rivalry with nearby clubs Chelsea and Queens Park Rangers. The rivalry with Chelsea, often referred to as the "West London Derby," is particularly intense, given the proximity of the two clubs. However, due to Fulham's more frequent periods outside the top division, the rivalry with queens Park Rangers and Brentford is also significant. 

Ownership 

Fulham has been owned by Pakistani-American businessmen Shahid Khan since 2013. Khan, who also owns the Jacksonville Jaguars in the NFL, took over from Mohamed Al Fayed, who had owned the club since 1997. Under Khan's ownership, Fulham has continued to aim for stability in the Premier League while developing younger talent. 

Notable Players 

Over the years, Fulham has been home to several well-known players. Some of the club's most famous players include:

• Johnny Haynes: Considered the greatest player in Fulham's Haynes played for the club from 1952 to 1970.
• Bobby Moore: The legendary England World Cup-winning captain played for Fulham towards the end of his career from 1974 to 1977.
• George Best: Another football legend, Best had a brief spell at Fulham during the 1976-77 season. 
• Clint Dempsey: One of Fulham's most iconic modern-day players, the American forward played a key role in the club's success in the Premier League and Europe. 
• Louis Saha: A prolific striker who played for Fulham from 2000 to 2004, helping them gain promotion to the Premier League. 

Recent Seasons 

After a period of relegation and promotion between the Premier League and Championship, Fulham earned promotion to the Premier League for the 2022-23 season under manager Marco Silva. The club has aimed for mid-table stability and continues to strengthen its squad with both established and young players. 

Conclusion 

Fulham Football Club is one of London's oldest and most historic clubs. Although it has faced numerous challenges and setbacks throughout its history, the club continues to maintain a strong presence in English football, with a loyal fanbase and a commitment to campaign in the Premier League. Fulham's traditional, family-oriented atmosphere, combined with its storied ground of Craven Cottage, makes it a beloved institution in the football world.