A GROIN strain has put paid to Clint Dempsey's hopes of adding to his 23 goals for the season when Fulham close the book on a long campaign on Sunday.

But Martin Jol does not believe the striker – the subject of much speculation over his future – has played his last game for the club.

The USA striker had an injection to ease the pain in his adductor muscle, but the medical staff have advised rest. It is not thought to be the start of any long term problem, like a hernia.

“It's hypothetical,” said the Fulham manager about the possibility of his star player moving to another club in the summer.

“There's been no bid for Clint whatsoever over the last couple of years. He will hopefully be here, because I want to keep my best players.

“Clint has scored a lot of goals, but he scored a lot last season as well and there was no club coming in for him then.”

Jol must do without long term crocks Steve Sidwell and Bryan Ruiz at Tottenham, while Andrew Johnson (groin), Dickson Etuhu (knee) are out of the picture and Alex Kacaniklic (hamstring) is doubtful.

Jol says that whatever the outcome, he will leave White Hart Lane feeling contended, having managed to combine a strong league showing with a Europa League campaign that started way back in June last year.

“I think it's a good season anyway, whatever the result,” the Dutchman said.

“It's not in our own hands because if Liverpool get a result or Everton have a result, then we won't be seventh. We could be eighth if we win and Liverpool lose against Swansea, but the only thing which is in our own hands is the result at Spurs.

“There's no pressure on us and we will hopefully enjoy the game and play freely. Six months ago was probably different because, for a lot of teams, there's pressure to get 40 points, but for us there's no pressure any more. We are in a fine position. We wanted to finish in the top 10 and we have.

“Three points would be marvellous, but there's only pride. It's a derby game and we're still number one in the derby games and that is a nice stat.

“They were the only [London] team to beat us and we deserved more when we played against them. I think we were the better team. But they're a very good team and there's a lot to play for, for them.”

Jol, who makes his first return to his old club since being axed five years ago, added: “I like the place, I like the club. It's still still in my heart, as Fulham is. This is my first time back there and hopefully I can enjoy it.”

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