Fulham FC

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Gray admits Cottagers shock

04 Sep 2008 - 14:20:49

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Deadline day signing Julian Gray has revealed his move to Fulham from Coventry City came completely out of the blue.

The 28-year-old former Crystal Palace and Birmingham City winger joined the Cottagers on a season-long loan deal in a surprise late swoop by manager Roy Hodgson.

Gray, who moved to the Sky Blues last summer and found the net three times in 26 Championship appearances, has previously played in the top-flight with Birmingham.

"(Coventry boss) Chris Coleman pulled me to one side. He said that there had been an approach made for me from a Premier League team. It was completely out of the blue so it came as a bit of a shock," he told the club's official website.

"I went down to London on transfer deadline day, had my medical and was offered an initial one-year loan deal.

"Because of the late timing of everything it's just a loan at the moment, then we'll see what happens.

"I think my natural strengths will add to the squad that's here already. I like to run at people, take them on and cross the ball. I've also got Premiership experience and that can only help.

"It's an exciting time for me and I'm delighted to be back in the Premier League.

"I'm from London and my family all live down here so being home makes it all even better."