Sharethematch.com ambassador Andy Gray was talking exclusively to South West Londoner.
Clint Dempsey became the first American to score a Premier League hat-trick in Fulham’s win over Newcastle and I really think his consistent form this season has warranted it.
I think this season he has been very good and although he has always been a positive acquisition for Fulham – this year he has really cracked on and become very important.
He became the first American to score an FA Cup hat-trick not long ago when he helped knock Charlton out, and then he followed it up with a treble in the league, which is just proof of how consistently well he has been playing.
I never feel cheated when I watch Clint Dempsey play, he does it all and works extremely hard for the team.
Even when he isn’t playing well he still puts in a shift and his versatility to play all across the midfield, in the hole or up top makes him very valuable indeed.
And this year he is also proving what a good finisher he is when given half a chance.
I know he has spoken in the past about the desire to play Champions League football and this year he is given himself the best chance with his form.
We will have to see if Fulham face a fight to retain his services. I think they won’t have to worry this transfer window but we will have to see next summer perhaps.
Although he is having a fine season I still wouldn’t put him in the top bracket of Premier League players.
He is probably good enough for a team that are challenging around fourth, fifth or sixth in the league but I don’t think he is on the radar of the Manchester clubs or Chelsea.
But maybe in a team that is challenging that dominance, or even abroad, he could get what he wants.
What you see is what you get with Clint Dempsey and he is a fine player and Fulham won’t want to lose him, that’s for sure.
Andy Gray is an official ambassador for Sharethematch.com – Football’s Social Network. Available now for FREE online or at the App Store; http://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/share-the-match/id450784289?mt=8
