photo by Neil Tingle/ISIphotos.com
By FRANCO PANIZO
Clint Dempsey is making his way back to Craven Cottage.
After weeks of rumors and reports, the Seattle Sounders announced on Tuesday that they have sent Dempsey on a two-month loan to Premiership side Fulham. Specific details for the loan were not given but it is expected that Dempsey will join the relegation-threatened Cottagers at the beginning of the new year before returning to Seattle prior to the start of the MLS season on March 8.
That estimated timeframe means Dempsey could make his Fulham return as soon as on Jan. 1 against West Ham United, though that seems unlikely given that he needs to return to match fitness and familiarize himself with his new teammates.
Other notable matches Dempsey could partake in for Fulham – who are in 19th place right now and have scored just 17 times in as many games – are a Jan. 11 tilt against Jozy Altidore’s Sunderland, a clash with Arsenal seven days later, and a road contest vs. Manchester United on Feb. 9.
The 30-year-old Dempsey, who is looking to round into form ahead of the 2014 World Cup, is coming off his first season in MLS. He made 12 combined appearances in the regular season and playoffs for the Sounders, scoring one goal and adding an assists.
Dempsey previously spent six seasons with the Cottages from 2007 until mid-2012. He scored 52 goals and had 18 assists in 184 appearances for the club, including a career-high 17 goals in the 2011-12 season.
Dempsey also holds the record for most goals scored by an American in England’s top flight with 57, which he amassed by playing for Fulham and Tottenham.
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What do you think of Dempsey joining Fulham on a two-month loan? Think it will be successful for him? Do you see him helping the Cottagers climb out of the drop zone?
Share your thoughts below.