Fulham - Happy Hangeland

The end of a simply delightful era befell upon us over the course of the Summer with graceful boss Roy Hodgson quitting the club for 'bigger and better things' at Liverpool.

Mark Hughes of Manchester United folklore was brought in to continue the good work Hodgson had done and his style has been something that has impressed centre-back Brede Hangeland.

It's no secret that Hangeland was in fact a Hodgson-signing and when bought in the January of 2008 it was his second spell under the current Liverpool boss.

However, the International captain has gone as far to say that new boss Sparky has the potential and ability to take Fulham onto better things, thanks to his more open, pressing and attacking game.

'It seems like we get at teams a bit more. We did that against United, said Brede.

'In the past against United and the other good teams, even at home, we`ve conceded ground a bit more early on and let them play.

'Now we try to press higher and take the game to them. It worked at times, and at other times not so well.

'But I`m sure we`ll get better as we have more time to practice. On our day we can match United. We did that on Sunday.'

And when asked if team spirit was about to fade, Hangeland didn't hesitate to quash any suggestions:

'There is no reason why we should lose our team spirit just because we have changed the manager.

'Towards the end of the game our spirit was every bit as good as it has been in the last couple of years.

'We came back again, as we have done many times, and it`s great to be a part of that. I`m confident Mark Hughes can lead us in the right direction.

'We would have taken a point before the game against such good opposition but, over 90 minutes, we were good value for the draw.

'On our day we can play against most teams. We should have respect for these teams but we shouldn`t have any fear.'

Wise words from the towering centre back.

But are you happy with Hughes' new tactical era?

Click here to join in the debate on the club forum.