Schwarzer still No.1, says Jol

Fulham boss Martin Jol says goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer is his first choice at the club despite David Stockdale’s impressive form.

The 39-year-old Socceroo has been on the sidelines for the past few weeks due to a spinal injury, giving Stockdale, who had been on loan at Ipswich Town, his chance in the Cottagers first-team.

Stockdale’s good form had led to speculation suggesting he would retain his spot as first choice even when Schwarzer returned from injury.

However Jol poured cold water on those suggestions, labelling Schwarzer one of Europe’s best keepers, when he spoke to reporters after Saturday’s 4-0 FA Cup win over Charlton.

“With Mark Schwarzer, there was never any doubt in my mind, and in anybody’s mind, that he’s one of the best keepers in England, maybe in Europe,” Jol said.

“I’ve had a lot of good goalkeepers and he stands out.”

“It’s good to know that I’ve got another goalkeeper who’s got more and more experience. That is why we put him on loan at Ipswich.”

“He did well there, so it’s only good for his experience that he came in and did well, like last year, but Mark Schwarzer is Mark Schwarzer.”

“Now we play with David, but Mark Schwarzer will come back in the next three or four weeks.”

“I can certainly tell you Stockdale makes saves that are unbelievable, but I can remember the Liverpool game when we were 1-0 up and there was a certain goal that Mark Schwarzer saved, so we’ve got two very good goalkeepers.”

After their win over Charlton, Fulham have been drawn away to Everton in the fourth round of the FA Cup.