Hodgson vows to keep Bullard

Midfielder linked with move away from Fulham

By Lewis Rutledge   Last updated: 11th June 2008

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Bullard: Going nowhere

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Roy Hodgson has rubbished reports linking Jimmy Bullard with a move away from Fulham.

Bullard joined Fulham in the summer of 2006 but he soon suffered a serious knee injury that sidelined him for around 18 months.

He returned towards the end of last season and was an inspirational figure as the Cottagers won four of their last five games to secure their Premier League survival.

West Ham and Aston Villa have been linked with the midfielder but Hodgson insists he will not be leaving.

"Jimmy's importance to us after his return to fitness cannot be underestimated," Hodgson said in the Daily Star.

"He was integral to our survival and is a very important player for this football club.

"I can assure the fans any stories of him leaving are nonsense."

Exciting time

Hodgson is adamant that he is looking to strengthen his squad rather than let his best players go.

The Fulham boss is keen to bring in a number of new faces this summer and is planning to build his team around Bullard.

"Jimmy Bullard is a key player for Fulham and I hope he will remain so for many seasons to come," he explained.

"We are looking forward to making some additions to the squad.

"This is an exciting time for the club and Jimmy Bullard will be playing alongside whoever those signings may be."