Fulham

Fulham Football Club, colloquially known as Fulham FC or simply Fulham, is a professional football club based in Fulham, London, England. Founded in 1879, it is one of the oldest football clubs in England. The club is currently a member of the English Football League (EFL) Championship, the second tier of English football.

Fulham FC's history is steeped in tradition and success. The club was initially a local boys' church team, known as Fulham St Andrew's Church Sunday School F.C., before it became Fulham FC in 1888. The club played its first professional match in 1896 and joined the Football League in 1907.

The team's home ground is Craven Cottage, a stadium situated on the banks of the River Thames in Fulham. The stadium, which has been the club's home since 1896, has a capacity of approximately 19,000 spectators. It is known for its unique "cottage" stand, a feature that gives the ground a distinctive character.

Fulham FC has had several periods of success throughout its history. The club reached the FA Cup final in 1975, losing to West Ham United. In the 2000-2001 season, Fulham dominated the EFL Championship, winning the league with a record 101 points. This success led to promotion to the Premier League, the top tier of English football, where they remained for 13 consecutive seasons.

One of the club's most notable achievements came in the 2009-2010 season when they reached the final of the UEFA Europa League, under the guidance of then-manager Roy Hodgson. Despite losing to Atletico Madrid in the final, the club's run in the competition is considered one of the greatest achievements in its history.

Over the years, Fulham FC has been home to several notable players, including World Cup winners George Cohen and Bobby Robson, England international striker Bobby Zamora, and American international Clint Dempsey. The club has also been managed by several high-profile managers, including former England managers Roy Hodgson and Kevin Keegan.

Despite facing relegation from the Premier League on multiple occasions, Fulham FC continues to be a resilient force in English football. The club's ethos, history, and commitment to nurturing talent through its academy system have ensured its enduring presence in the competitive world of football. The club's loyal fan base, known as the Fulham faithful, continues to support the team through thick and thin, embodying the spirit of the club's motto: "Proud to be Fulham".

In recent years, Fulham FC has continued to strive for success, bouncing back from relegations with immediate promotions. The club's ambition is to establish itself as a permanent fixture in the Premier League and to continue building on its rich history. Despite the ups and downs, Fulham FC remains a beloved institution in English football, renowned for its commitment to the beautiful game.