Fulham: Crossley to start in goal

Fulham's Mark Crossley has been rewarded for his fine display against Birmingham in the Carling Cup with a rare Premiership start against Tottenham.

The Wales shot-stopper was given a chance to impress against Blues in midweek and did enough to retain the number one shirt against Spurs.

Chris Coleman's decision whether to drop first choice Edwin van der Sar was taken out of his hands when the Dutch ace picked up a knock, however the Welshman stated he would be a hypocrite had he not kept faith with Crossley.

"I've always said if people play well they keep the jersey and Mark played very well on Wednesday," explained Coleman.

"If I didn't keep him in the team it would make me a hypocrite, so he will start.

"But Edwin picked up a knock anyway, so that decision has been taken away from me anyway.

"Edwin was in the gym working out and his back stiffened up. Injuries are trend at this club at the moment."

skysports