Fulham boss contemplating making changes for Europa League Image text here

Zamora: Could be rested for Thursday's Europa League game with FC Twente

Fulham manager Martin Jol admits he may have to rearrange his squad for the Europa League game against FC Twente on Thursday.

The Cottagers begin their group stage campaign after beating NSI Runavik, Crusaders, FC Dnipro and RNK Split in the qualification phase.

The intensity of their European schedule has meant that they have had to play three of their four Premier League games on Sunday afternoons this season.

The latest league game was a disappointing 1-1 draw with Blackburn at the weekend - a result which leaves them 18th in the division.

Record signing Bryan Ruiz made his debut for the club in that fixture, but Jol admits he made a mistake in starting the striker.
He said: "You felt in the first half that there was some pressure from the crowd because they expect a lot and I thought it was better for him and probably better for us because he has to cope with English football and you can't expect him, after two days, to be in his prime."

Ruiz was signed from Thursday's opponents in August and cannot play after already making an appearance in the competition for the Dutch side.
Jol said: "He was pretty disgusted as well with the situation because he played a few games and he was injured before that, but that's the reality."                

 

Another player who may miss out is Bobby Zamora, with the weekend's game against Manchester City looming.
Jol said: "He's fully fit, but we've got another game on Sunday, so that is another decision to make.
"It could be a problem with the likes of Bobby Zamora - a bit older, maybe not 100% fit.
"Don't forget that we missed Bobby in three league matches as well, so that was a problem.
"If you play in the Europa on a Thursday, you have to play your league games on a Sunday - that is tough.
"And that is why we will change a few positions to keep a few players maybe fitter for Sunday."