In another story about a possible move from the Club, former keeper, Pascal Zuberbulher has advised Neil Etheridge that a move would be in his best interests. please log in to view this image "Azkals goalkeeping coach Pascal Zuberbühler is urging Neil Etheridge to leave English Premier League (EPL) side Fulham FC. The 23-year old's contract is up at the end of the 2012-2013 season and the ex-Swiss international player thinks it is time for Etheridge to seek new pastures. The Philippines' first choice stopper has been at Craven Cottage since 2006, but has yet to make his mark on the West London club's first team. The British-Pinoy, currently second behind Australian veteran Mark Schwarzer, has not played an EPL game and only made his professional league debut earlier this season during a loan spell at League Two outfit Bristol Rovers FC. Zuberbühler, who Etheridge describes as âa father figure,â used to play and coach at Fulham. The 42-year old is concerned about the development of his protege, who he has watched for seven years." Here is a link to the full story - http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/sports/03/21/13/azkals-coach-urges-etheridges-fulham-exit I think the future of David Stockdale, come the summer will be the main thought in Etheridgeâs mind. And of course whether we continue to pursue a direct replacement for Schwarzer. The last thing young Etheridge will want is to follow Stockdaleâs experience at the Club. Nor should he.
Very few young goalkeepers are given their chance in the Premier, and even fewer graduate through the ranks of a Premier club. The one thing for next season though is Schwarzer is not getting younger and could get injured, would Jol then rely on Etheridge. He didn't this season recalling Stockdale, but would he next season bed him in during cup games, like he did in the Europa game. Personally I'd be looking to bring a top class keeper in, and allow Mark to take the cup games and be the No2.
