Cottage chief makes Stockdale promise

Martin Jol has promised David Stockdale that he will be given a fair chance to fight Mark Schwarzer for Fulham's number one jersey.

The Cottagers chief continued the trend of keeping Australian international veteran, Schwarzer, as the first choice goalkeeper at Craven Cottage during his first season at the helm. But, after sending 26-year-old Stockdale out on loan to Championship side Ipswich, Jol was impressed with his performances when he was recalled to the Londoners due to Schwarzer's mid-season injury absence. It is likely that Stockdale, who has made 23 appearances for Fulham since joining from Darlington in 2008, will start the season as cover for Schwarzer, but Jol insists he will be given an opportunity to take the number one spot. Jol told the Chronicle: "David Stockdale came in after Mark's injury and did well. He did well before I came to this club so we will see in pre-season. "But there's a little advantage for Mark because he's the number one here and was always the number one at any other club as well. "It won't be easy for David to get this spot but he's got all the talent. He's not 18 so hopefully he can stay fit."