Erik Nevland was in good spirits on Sunday evening after playing a key role in Fulham’s 3-2 victory over West Ham United.
The Norwegian played the full 90 minutes in the win which produced more action than most expected coming so soon after the dramatic UEFA Europa League semi-final victory over Hamburg.
Roy Hodgson made seven changes from the side that started on Thursday, but those that came into the team certainly did themselves justice with a positive and deserved result.
“It was nice to get a win,” assessed Nevland. “And it was nice for the guys that played today to get a positive result.
“After Thursday night nothing was really expected and you don’t know how you will react after a night like that, but we reacted in the right way, played well and got the three points, which was important.”
With one of the all-time high occasions in the Club’s history still fresh in the memory, and rain and wind doing much to dampen spirits on the banks of the Thames, the team may have been forgiven for a slightly lacklustre display, but Erik confirmed that the players were as focused as ever before kick-off.
“Mentally you’re ready whatever the occasion, so it’s just a case of how the body reacts when you get out there. But we had the crowd behind us from the start – they certainly kept going from Thursday night – which really gave us the push we needed, so they played their part in helping us on today.”
The three points took the Whites to 10th in the Premier League table – a position that the squad have set as a definite target - and given our exertions in Europe, maintaining this league placing would represent a very positive achievement.
“It’s in our hands now and that’s the way we want it,” said Erik. “If we beat Stoke we have a good chance of securing our place in the top 10, so that’s our aim for the rest of the season.”
So with just two games remaining, thoughts now turn to the Potters’ visit on Wednesday when the right result could secure that top half finish, although with their eyes on the same prize, Erik says it won’t be easy.
“They’ll come here and do their best. Stoke are always a difficult team to play against and they will do everything to get in the top 10 just as we will, so it will be an interesting game.”