View From The Town End: Fulham
Cottagers fan Russ Goldman thinks his side can “contend for automatic promotion” this season.
Having returned from Swansea with a point at the weekend, it’s a quick turnaround for Reading as they host Fulham on Tuesday evening, aiming to to make it three wins from three against the relegated sides.
Ahead of the game, we spoke to Fulham fan Russ Goldman to get the lowdown on the Cottagers.
What have you made of Fulham’s start to the season?
It has been average so far, as they have a very talented team, but they are still learning to play together and I think we are seeing growing pains. With that said I still see a team that can go on a long run, and contend for automatic promotion.
What do you think of the job Scott Parker’s done so far as manager?
He is a young manager and I think the jury is still out on him as a Fulham manager. I still need to see much more before making a judgement on him. I was not in favour of hiring him because I wanted an experienced manager, but I will give him time to prove me wrong.
Who are the key players we should look out for?
It is easy to look at the three up front but I am going to focus on the midfield three because they are the key to our possession game and getting the three up front involved. Tom Cairney is very important to Fulham as he is a player who is creating centrally. Harrison Reed has been a pleasant surprise as he is the defensive midfielder and has done a nice job. The other member of the three could be between Harry Arter and Stefan Johansen. If the midfield three do their job and control the play, Fulham have a great chance to win any match.
What are Fulham’s main strengths as a team?
The main strength I think are the three up top as Mitrovic, Cavaleiro, and Knockaert are all Premier League quality. If they are involved and contributing, Fulham will be very hard to beat.
And weaknesses?
I think Marcus Bettinelli is a weakness at goalkeeper as he has cost them more than a few points this season. He has been better lately, but he has made mistakes that have cost Fulham this season. I would also say not being able to kill off games is a weakness as well. Lastly Fulham are still trying to perfect playing the ball out from the back so they do struggle a bit when pressed.
How do you see the game going, and what will the score be?
Fulham have been so close to really putting it together and I have a good feeling about Tuesday Night. I am going for a 2-1 Fulham victory.