Fulham manager Slavisa Jokanovic
Like fellow newly-promoted side Wolverhampton Wanderers, Fulham are on a spending spree this summer. The Cottagers are in the process of assembling a squad that will not only survive relegation but can also compete in the Premier League. After a slow start to the summer, the Craven Cottage side’s transfer activities have finally ground into gear as the deadline approaches.
Alfie Mawson, Aleksandar Mitrovic, Jean-Michael Seri, Maxime Le Marchand, Fabri and Andre Schurrle will all be plying their trade at Craven Cottage next season. On paper, this squad is strong enough to push for a top-10 finish if everything clicks.
Formation: Slavisa Jokanovic’s preferred 4-2-3 -1
Goalkeeper: Marcus Bettinelli
He must pick off where he left last season after a series of impressive displays. Fabri will be the backup keeper, experienced and reliable.
Left-Back: Denis Odoi
The experienced Belgian was part of Fulham’s centre-back pair from the previous term but he could feature at left-back ahead of Maxime Le Marchand, another signing from Nice.
Centre-Back: Tim Ream
The leader at the back will be tasked with marshalling the club’s defence to thwart opposition attacks. He was colossal last season and he should start at the heart of Fulham’s defence.
Centre-Back: Alfie Mawson
Mawson has joined Craven Cottage on a four-year deal from relegated Swansea City and he should feature in the centre-back berth.
Right-Back: Cyrus Christie
Signed as Ryan Fredericks’ replacement in January, the Irishman should feature at right-back and repay his manager’s faith and trust in him.
Defensive Midfielder: Kevin McDonald
McDonald will be part of the holding midfield pair. He will be key to the club’s ambitions and this is evident given that he has just signed a new contract at Fulham. Expect him to give everything when the action starts.
Defensive Midfielder: Jean Michael Seri
Signing Seri was a shrewd piece of business by the Cottagers. On the pitch, expect loads of energy from the former Nice man.
Left-Wing: Ryan Sessegnon
At only 18, Fulham’s wonder kid will receive Premier League exposure. Having emerged through Fulham’s youth ranks, Sessegnon has made 71 Championship appearances, scoring 20 goals and providing 9 assists. Now the Premier League lays in wait for him.
Central Attacking Midfielder: Tom Cairney
Fulham’s captain and talisman must lead the Cottagers, featuring as an attacking midfielder through the middle.
Right-Wing: Andre Schurrle
Although he prefers playing on the left flank, Schurrle can play anywhere across the attack line. The German has joined Fulham for another stint in the Premier League and London after his stay at Chelsea. He must replicate his form and work wonders for Jokanovic’s men.
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Centre-Forward: Aleksandar Mitrovic
Mitrovic should get the nod ahead of Rui Fonte. After a successful loan spell in the Championship, he must prove his calibre in the top-flight as well.
