Hodgson Calls For Changes

Fulham executed a memorable escape when they downed Portsmouth 1-0 on the final of the season to secure survival after seeming dead and buried in 19th only a few weeks prior.

Hodgson has no intentions of reliving the experience next term, insisting significant changes are required over the summer if the Cottagers are to make any progress.

Stronger

"We have to make certain in the summer that we have a stronger platform next season," said the former Finland boss.

"The last thing we need is to find ourselves fighting from the outset trying to get out of the bottom three.

"We have given ourselves a chance to build that platform but a lot of hard work is needed to make sure."

Commitment

Al-Fayed promised his players a hamper packed with champagne, caviar and Viagra should they avoid the drop, while Hodgson was guaranteed a ₤1 million bonus.

Whether he has delivered on those pledges yet in unknown, but he has firmly reiterated his dedication to the club he has chaired for over a decade.

The Harrods owner said: "My own commitment to the club is as strong as it has ever been in the 10 years I've been chairman."

Excellent

Danny Murphy was the hero at Fratton Park on Sunday, heading home Jimmy Bullard’s cross in the second half to earn Fulham another season in the top-flight.

The former Liverpool midfielder believes the team fully deserved to stay, given the quality of their performances at the tail-end of the term, and praised Hodgson's persistence and vision.

"For weeks we haven't played like a team that's in the relegation zone," said the 33-year-old. "The style of football we have played has been excellent considering the pressure we have been under and the manager deserves credit for that."

Mike Maguire