Hodgson mistake over Bullard

Jimmy Bullard has been told he can leave Fulham in the January transfer window, despite playing an integral role in the club’s incredible survival last season.

The move seems to have been instigated by manager Roy Hodgson, someone who has never been as much of a fan of Bullard as the supporters. Hodgson asserted that he didn’t want any players to leave during the January window and that talks are ongoing with Bullard, but ever since the contract issue came up earlier this season, Fulham have refused to commit.

This, despite Bullard earning his first England call-up and almost single-handedly saving Fulham from playing Championship football. Superb goals against the likes of Aston Villa and Blackburn, and numerous, invaluable assists – including providing the winning goal against Portsmouth, a victory that ultimately kept Fulham up – makes Bullard one of Fulham’s best and most valuable players.

His performances in the new season have been inconsistent, but he remains essential.

The club, although in tenth position, are still in a relegation battle. They sit only three points above the drop zone and have a tough Christmas fixture list awaiting them. Allowing Bullard to go would be a huge mistake on Hodgson’s part. He is the engine of the side and, above all, a game-changer. One sublime pass or stunning long-range shot can win a game in a moment, and his recent goal against Manchester City demonstrated his innate ability.

Off-the-field, he dominates the changing room with his jokes and pranks, lightening the mood and ensuring a close team bond.

It is up to Hodgson to get the best out of Bullard, and not to discard him for a cut price simply because he has just 18 months left on his current contract.

Fulham have not started verbal or written negotiations with Bullard despite previously stating that they had made some cautious first steps. The 29-year-old is keen to stay on at the club and has been attempting to initiate discussions for months, but Hodgson’s mind seems made up. It may be that Bullard holds too much influence amongst the squad, and that Hodgson feels it could negatively affect the team – and challenge his own authority.

If the latest Fulham boss does decide to accept a January bid, he may struggle to keep the club in the top-flight. Finding a cheap replacement would be almost impossible considering the constraints of the mid-season window. Allowing Bullard to leave would surely prove one of the oddest decisions in recent times; and it could be a decision that leaves Hodgson red-faced and jobless.