Damien Duff

Damien Duff became Fulham’s third signing of last summer when he switched from Newcastle United in August 2009.

Duff is well-known to Manager Roy Hodgson, who managed the Irish winger at his first club, Blackburn Rovers, where he made his debut on the final day of the 1996-97 season at the age of 18.

After making more than 180 appearances for the Lancashire club, the skilful left-sider became Chelsea’s then record signing when he joined for £17million at the start of the 2003-04 campaign.

Injury affected his initial impact at Stamford Bridge, but he went on to become a key player for Fulham’s SW6 rivals, helping them to their highest league finish in 49 years. He also became part of the Blues team that swept up the Premier League title and Carling Cup in 2005.

Duff made more than 80 appearances for Chelsea, scoring 14 goals, before joining Newcastle in July 2006.

The 30-year-old made some key contributions in his three years at St James’ Park, although the Magpies’ fortunes took a turn for the worse when they were relegated at the end of last season.

With the 75-cap Republic of Ireland international available, Hodgson made his move to secure his former Blackburn protégé and offered Duff an instant return to the English top-flight.

Duff has enjoyed a superb start to his Fulham career, producing some outstanding displays and scoring some crucial goals along the way this season.