[AMERICANS ABROAD] American attacker Clint Dempsey was named Player of the Month at his English Premier League club Fulham. Dempsey was used a sub in the first three games of the season, then started the next two games and notch a goal in each.

"It's always an honor when you're recognized by the fans for your play," Dempsey told fulhamfc.com. "The season didn't start out exactly how I wanted in terms of playing time. But through working hard the coach gave me a chance and I was able to show that I could play.

"I like being in the attack and any time you have the opportunity to be closer to the opponent's goal you're going to have more chances to score. I'm a quite tall and decent in the air so I think that's what allowed me to play up front.

"I've been watching Brian [McBride, Dempsey's injured American teammate], who is a more experienced player and does a better job in the air, but through watching him and playing more I hope to be successful in that position for as long as I'm on the field. The most important thing for me is to play and contribute towards the team. In whatever position play, I want to be the best that I can be."

Fulham plays at Wigan this weekend.