Dempsey punished by Fulham

Clint Dempsey: The USA international is believed to be trying to force through a move to Liverpool

Sky Sports sources understand Clint Dempsey has been fined by Fulham for refusing to play for the Premier League club.

Craven Cottage boss Martin Jol on the eve of the new season has already confirmed the American is not committed and has not been involved with the squad for the past four weeks.

Dempsey is believed to be trying to force through a move to Liverpool and Jol is less than impressed, describing the situation as 'sad and almost embarrassing'.

The USA international has as a consequence been punished by Fulham in the form of a fine and it remains to be seen if he is still at the club beyond the 31st August transfer deadline day.

Jol had said ahead Saturday's first game of the season against Norwich City: "Clint was not involved over the last four weeks so he is not going to be in the squad.

"He is not committed to the club. He wants to leave.

"I would like to keep him but I think it's impossible. It's a sad and an almost embarrassing situation."