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Jol relieved to hang on to Hangeland

SoccerNews in English Premier League 31 Mar 2013

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Fulham manager Martin Jol has expressed his relief after captain Brede Hangeland signed a new two-year contract with the club.

The 31-year-old’s previous deal was set to expire at the end of the season, leading to speculation linking him with a host of Premier League clubs.

And Jol has admitted he was not certain the centre-back would elect to remain with the Cottagers beyond the 2012/13 campaign.

“We are ever so satisfied that he signed his contract because you never know,” Jol told reporters.

“It was quite challenging trying to keep him.

“I thought I could lose him – and he was a tower of strength this year, last year and before I came here. I always thought he wanted to stay, but you never know.

“He was on a free at the end of the year and it took a long time. But we did everything and in the end it was a happy outcome.

“He came to sign it on Thursday and it was a relief. He is one of the best players in the division, he is our skipper and a very nice man. So, we’re very pleased to keep him.”

Queens Park Rangers, who make the short journey to face Fulham on Monday, were one of the clubs thought to be eyeing a move for Hangeland should he have failed to agree terms.

QPR tempted Bobby Zamora to Loftus Road from Craven Cottage in the off-season but Jol – who was rumoured to have fallen out with the former Brighton and West Ham man – said he does not regret allowing the striker to leave.

“Bobby wanted to move,” he said.

“He thought he could help QPR and, if he’s fit, he can help any team as he’s a good striker.”

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