Cup Magic

Eidur Gudjohnsen made his home debut for Fulham against Chelsea in the SW6 derby on Monday night and as the Team prepare for Sunday's FA Cup clash at the Cottage, Gudjohnsen spoke of his happiness at having arrived in SW6 following a difficult spell at Stoke.

“I’ve really enjoyed my time at Fulham so far,” Gudjohnsen explained. “Training has been good and I’ve been impressed by the whole set up at Fulham – it’s really professional.

“I’m just glad that I’m here. It’s a good club and we play good football - it’s about pass and move. We play to our strengths, we keep the ball on the floor and there’s a good mixture of players at the Club.

“I feel really comfortable in the dressing room and all the boys have welcomed me with open arms. I feel that I’ve still got a lot to give. Physically, I’ve been injury free for most of my career and I’m full of energy. Hopefully that will reflect in the games I play."

Gudjohnsen came within reach of winning the FA Cup in 2002 but was denied by Arsenal at the Millienium Stadium in Wales. Having won two Premier League titles, two Community Shields and the Football League Cup, Gudjohnsen would dearly love to complete his English medal collection with Fulham this season as the Whites prepare to face Bolton in the 5th Round on Sunday afternoon.

“I lost in the Final of the FA Cup against Arsenal when I played for Chelsea and that was at a time when I hadn’t won any trophies in my career. It was difficult to take in losing the Final but I remember the excitement leading up to the game and it was a great, great day. Even though we lost it was a wonderful experience.

“It's [the FA Cup] the most special cup competition in the world because of its history and special moments that stick out. There is something exciting and romantic about the FA Cup.”

Gudjohnsen will remain at the Cottage until the end of the 2010/11 season but after returning to West London after spells in Barcelona, Monaco, North London and Stoke, the Icelandic international would clearly love to settle down and do what he loves doing best. 

"It’s [football] the best game in the world and I just love it," Gudjohnsen explained. "I feel great still and I still really enjoy coming in every morning.

"Over the past 18 months I’ve been here, there and everywhere and it’s not easy moving from one place to another without settling down. To really settle in somewhere you need a bit more than three or four months but it’s given me a great incentive to show what I’m capable of.

"I’ll be on a free transfer this summer and it’s down to me to try and help the team as much as I can from now until the end of the season. I’m more than capable of playing at a high level and we’ll open discussions when the time comes."