Once you are relegated there is no changing that fact, but in football there is always the next game to improve the situation, set a course for the future and put smiles on people’s faces. I thought Fulham were absolutely terrific against Everton. The Toffees arrived having beaten Chelsea, West Ham and Arsenal without conceding a goal, and so the win at the Cottage was equally pleasing and impressive. It showed the potential of this team, and although you could complain about inconsistency on the back of that win, the most important thing is the performance in the now and the direction it might give you.
I felt we were due a big result, and I was particularly delighted for Scott Parker who was given a mountain to climb with a fixture list of only top teams to play when he was appointed. He kept true to himself and his message and was duly rewarded on Saturday. Captain Cairney finally scored his Premier League goal, and the relief was understandable after a season where as captain he has felt the pressure and frustration more than most. You keep battling away during a season like this one, with many knocks to overcome, and it’s nice to finally enjoy the feeling of scoring a goal and winning.
Ryan Babel’s contribution was absolutely first class. He engineered both goals and demonstrated frightening pace and a great attitude. Personally I am too old-school to understand red hair in relegation fights, but there is no question that Babel has made an impact and provided much needed quality and cutting edge.
Last Saturday was a welcome chapter in the story of our season, but the fact remains we are relegated, and the narrative has been a disappointment and a surprise. This season has been a tough lesson for all fans of this football club and I am convinced the people upstairs will reflect, learn and adjust accordingly. The good news is we are clearly in a much better position now than was the case in 2014 when Fulham were last relegated from the Premier League. Back then we had an unbalanced squad and uncertainty in our playing style, and nobody could foresee our future direction. At least this time around there are foundations in place to map out a swift return to the Premier League. For me, a few basic traits should be expected from anyone in and around the First Team at Fulham: you must be a team player, able to recognise and appreciate the bigger picture when representing Fulham Football Club. You must always work very hard to improve your performance, while at the same time always presenting yourself so that you inspire those around you. Taking in all this, you should understand how privileged you are at Fulham, and so this Club is not a stopover on your road, it is your destination.
Bournemouth have made the most of this thinking for the past few years, and once again they will be able to enjoy a Premier League season next year against the odds. This is down to consistency in the squad, having a clear understanding of playing style, and individuals who truly understand the values of the club. Bournemouth have developed a very clear identity, and the relief after their incredible win at Brighton must have been massive.
We can expect a very entertaining game on Saturday. Two teams with an attacking mindset, playing with less pressure and more freedom, down on the south-coast on bank holiday. I envy those of you who are making the journey down there for the game, and the rumours about a Fulham party in the away end made me smile. It’s so Fulham, and as always it is the right way to do it. Football boils down to enjoying the experience together, sharing the hope of a great game and a bright future. I hope we finish on a high.
Come on Fulham!