Marek Rodák knows he has the support of Marcus Bettinelli, after winning back the gloves from his mate.
Having served a one-game suspension, Rodák was back in the starting XI for the win at Birmingham City, and impressed as Fulham secured a gritty 1-0 win.
When asked about his relationship with Bettinelli, Rodák told fulhamfc.com: “We’re really good friends.
“He’s a few years older than me so he’s always helped me, from showing me around when I first joined, to helping and supporting me when I started getting involved with the First Team.
“We’ve got a really good relationship and I know he’s fully behind me, like I was with him when he had the shirt.
“It was maybe a bit unfortunate for Betts because when he came on against Boro he kept a clean sheet, but it was the gaffer’s decision and he put me back in.
“It was important to get the win before we went away on an international break. I thought we deserved it, the team played well.
“I was pleased with my performance, making a few saves – a clean sheet is always nice.”
After marking his league debut for Fulham with victory over Luton Town, Rodák was again selected for our trip to Middlesbrough a few days later.
His afternoon would last just 17 minutes, though, when he was shown a straight red card; somewhat frustrating when you’re trying to establish yourself as the Club’s number one…
“Yeah especially because it wasn’t handball!” Rodák stated. “If I had handled it then fair enough, but it was my chest, so that was very frustrating.
“The referee wasn’t having any of it, he didn’t even ask his linesman, but that’s football.”
Friday’s meeting with Queens Park Rangers could signal a first West London derby for Rodák – an opportunity he’s relishing.
“I’m buzzing,” he said. “They’ve started quite well, I know some of their players and they will be a threat. But we’ve prepared well and always back ourselves.
“My first game was a night time match at the Cottage and it was a special atmosphere, so I’m sure Friday will be the same.”