Damien Duff scored his sixth league goal of the season on Sunday as the Whites fought back for a vital three points, but the Republic of Ireland international was quick to share the plaudits.
Roy Hodgson hailed Duff’s 59th minute equaliser against Birmingham City as a ‘wonder strike’ while team-mates praised the 30-year-old’s contribution since his arrival from Newcastle United in August.
Seemingly enjoying a new lease of life at Craven Cottage, Duff has impressed with his ability to retain possession, whilst his directness down the flank has given Fulham an added dimension this season.
His second goal of February and his eighth in all competitions for the Whites also underlined his importance in front of goal, with his brilliant drive doing much for our cause against Birmingham.
He told fulhamfc.com: “The goal was alright but it was more important that the Team managed to get back into the game more than myself adding to my goals tally. Whoever scored it was an important goal.
“Of course, it is always nice to score and as we know Bobby [Zamora] went on to score the winner which made it a good day for us. They [Birmingham] are a good side and when they go in front like they did against us they usually don’t let that lead slip – so that made the victory very satisfying.”
The three points were even more rewarding considering last week’s UEFA Europa League exertions with the game against Shakhtar Donetsk testing the squad’s strength and character.
“I think the team spirit and desire is there for all to see,” said Duff. “That was the case last Thursday and again on Sunday. The two games were very different; Shakhtar, as everyone will agree, were a fantastic footballing side – one of the best perhaps - and moved the ball around very nicely, whilst the match with Birmingham was more of a physical battle.
“Despite the efforts in midweek I thought we looked energetic enough, it has been a tough week for us because not long before that game we also played in the FA Cup. I think we can be very pleased with how we have played.”
Inside eight days, Fulham ran out in the league and in two major cup competitions with Sunday’s win moving the Whites into ninth and three points off that 40-point marker – all of which makes for positive reading.
“When I signed I hadn’t thought too much about what could be achieved this season,” reflected Duff. “I just wanted to get back and enjoy my football again. I have to say that I am very pleased with how things are going both for me personally and for the team. Hopefully that will carry on for the rest of the season.
“We have an FA Cup Quarter-Final to look forward to, as well as the second leg with Shakhtar this week. That will be another exciting game and it will be an exciting place to go.
“But the League is our bread and butter, and it’s important that we keep picking up points. We have a nice amount already, but there is a long way to go. However, we’re certainly not looking downwards, we’re definitely looking up.”
