Jol's always rated Pogrebnyak

Fulham boss Martin Jol has revealed he tried to sign Pavel Pogrebnyak three years ago after the striker's dream debut for the club.

Pogrebnyak took less than 16 minutes to open his Barclays Premier League account in Saturday's 2-1 win over Stoke following his January move from Stuttgart.

Jol has long been an admirer of the Russia international, who he failed to land while Hamburg manager in 2008-09.

He said: "I knew Pavel's style of play. I wanted him when I was in Germany for Hamburg. He knew that and that probably gave us a little edge as well.

"I spoke to his (Russia) coaches, Guus Hiddink and Dick Advocaat, and he's a regular in the Russian national team, which is a strong team, so I knew his credentials were good.

"I know the English game and I think he can do well here because what we have seen in training and against Stoke has given us a boost."