Jol backs Stockdale after costly mistake
Fulham manager Martin Jol had some sympathy for David Stockdale following the 2-1 defeat against Swansea.
Stockdale, making his first start for the Whites this season, was at fault for the visitors’ first goal at Craven Cottage and his dreadful mistake then led to their second.
After the goalkeeper’s clearance hit Fulham defender Brede Hangeland, Jonathan de Guzman was able to slot home to double Swansea’s lead.
Jol said: “The first goal we presented to them and the second goal was almost a Christmas gift.
“The only one who didn’t have the best day was my goalkeeper and he is a very good goalkeeper. I won’t blame him but you could see that he gave them the two goals.
“To be fair to Stockdale, he has always been a fantastic replacement for Mark Schwarzer. He was very disappointed.”
The result continued Fulham’s alarming recent run. They have won only one of their last 12 matches and are just four points above the relegation zone.
But Jol remains convinced their fortunes will improve as key players return to action.
“Several wins and we will be in a great position,” he said.
“If everyone is back – Mahamadou Diarra will come back, Bryan Ruiz is back, Mladen Petric will come back – we will be better.”
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