In Possession

The 08/09 season is looking set to be the tightest in Premier League history. That is certainly the viewpoint taken by many at this relatively early stage – but whilst competition for places is fierce, with only eight points separating the positions of fifth and 17th, some semblance of ‘natural order’ is beginning to emerge at the top end of the table with Arsenal, Manchester United, Liverpool and Arsenal occupying five out of the top four positions.

Travelling to the home ground of a ‘top four’ side is always a stern test for any team. Often a too defensive or offensive approach to the game will lead to spaces being found and weaknesses exploited. Fulham’s recent display at Anfield fell into neither category, as the Whites attacked with intensity and coped admirably in defence.

In many ways, Fulham met Liverpool on a level playing field and Whites midfielder, Jimmy Bullard, is certainly pleased with the team’s ability to maintain their composure and exert greater control on proceedings against the big sides.

“That’s what we’re all about, we can press teams, get after them and when we get possession we can own the ball and own the game," explained Bullard. "That’s what the best teams do, look after the ball and play at their pace.

It’s all about keeping the ball, the stats are there for everyone to see, if you have a look at the top four teams, I guarantee you that Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea and Liverpool, through the whole season, will have made the most passes out of all the teams in the league.

“When you hold the ball, you hold the aces, you’re not going to score without the ball – it’s a simple fact. Whoever wins the league will be in the top three in terms of possession football."

One of Roy Hodgson's summer signings that Bullard clearly admires is Bobby Zamora. The striker has been in fine form in recent weeks and a vocal appreciation for Zamora's workrate and play has been heard from the stands and the dressing room in recent weeks.

“Bobby’s a great player; I call him ‘Bobatov’", Bullard revealed. "He’s a proper footballer, he’s got a silky touch on the ball, and he can pull it out of the air – that’s what he’s all about. He’s a big, strong physical lad as well and a real football player."