Schwarzer backs Pogrebnyak to replace Zamora

Fulham goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer has backed new signing Pavel Pogrebnyak to fill the hefty void left by Bobby Zamora.

Zamora moved to rivals Queens Park Rangers on deadline day, but the departure was quickly countered with a move for VFB Stuttgart striker Pogrebnyak. The Russian was at a loss of form in Germany and Jol signed him up on a six month deal.

The outcast looks good for the former Zenit man, however, after he netted on his debut in a 2-1 victory over Stoke City, and Schwarzer clearly feels the forward has great credentials.

"Pavel has had one game and the signs are positive," the Australian told the Daily Star.

"In training he has been very good but it will take someone special to replace Bobby in the long term."

Schwarzer then went on to bemoan the loss of Zamora, but he definitely feels that Fulham's new singing is in a similar mould to the departed English international.

"It's always difficult when you lose big players and Zamora scored a lot of goals and his link-up play was invaluable.

"Pavel has all the attributes to do that. We're confident he can get better and better. He looks very good and has fitted in easily.

"His work-rate was excellent and, although you probably didn't see his ability on the ball, his finish was top class."