If only Fulham had signed more quality players with Premier League experience last year, maybe the club would still be competing at the top level this coming season.
You may ask what about Chambers, Babel and Schurrle then?
With the exception of Chambers, who was the best recruit of the season, Babel tried hard but failed to really impress, while Schurrle was only interested in scoring a spectacular goal, and lacked any real effort or passion. Most of the other players that came in failed to impress, particularly the two goalkeepers.
The big difference now is that Tony Khan and his team seem to have learnt from the £100m disastrous spending spree of last year, and have recognised (at least so far), that quality and experience counts for everything.
The excellent acquisitions of Ivan Cavaleiro and Anthony Knockaert playing alongside the mighty Alek Mitrovic with backup from the strong-minded and tough Abu Kamara and the lively Neeskens Kebano should frighten even the best of Championship defences.
With the brilliant news that Mitro has decided to stay at the Cottage and sign another contract, I’m sure all Fulham fans will agree that this was the best bit of transfer news together with captain Tom Cairney pledging his future to the club. With the return of Johansen, and Macdonald and goalie Bettinelli back as first choice, the future is looking considerably brighter.
With Mawson, hopefully fully fit and raring to go, Joe Bryan, Steven Sessegnon, Tim Ream, Christie and Odoi, we should have enough strength in depth for the Championship. Another addition or two to strengthen the defence and midfield, Fulham may have what it takes to make a swift return to the Premier League at the first attempt.
A fine second half against Brighton last weekend with a brace from skipper Tom Cairney, a 2-1 victory was well deserved. The team needed to get the winning mentality back. Let’s hope it is the start of another long unbeaten run starting in the first Championship match on Barnsley on Saturday week.
Previous article by Brian Gower
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