Wolves face Fulham on Saturday in what will be the first game at Molineux this season. We spoke with Cameron Ramsey from the Fulhamish podcast who gave us the low down on Fulham.
How has preseason gone for Fulham?
Pre-season was fairly tough as we travelled to the Algarve to take on OGC Nice, Benfica and Estoril. We beat Nice 2-0, and then also in a bizarre penalty shoot-out, but then we were spanked 5-1 by Benfica. We rounded the tour off with a 3-1 win against Estoril and a week before the season’s start, we drew 1-1 with Villarreal, which was unexpected. So, a mixed pre-season for sure and we’ve learnt a lot about what we have at our disposal.
Are you happy with the transfer business that’s been conducted by your club?
Unlike previous seasons, our business so far has been considered and those we’ve acquired have definitely bettered the squad. Joao Palhinha is a ridiculously solid addition, as is Andreas Pereira, and we’ve also strengthened out wide with Manor Solomon and Kevin Mbabu. We’re still fairly light defensively, although with Shane Duffy coming in on loan from Brighton and Bernd Leno joining from Arsenal, I’d say I’m thrilled.
What is your opinion on your manager?
Marco Silva’s worked wonders. After 18-months out of the game he’s evidently refined his philosophy and Fulham won’t change their approach for any team. He’s gotten the very best out of Mitrovic, there’s a tangible unity within the squad and on the pitch, we’re fearless. That’s all down to the gaffer, he trusts his troops and hopefully the positive results will continue to materialise.
What is your team’s typical formation and style of play?
We play with a flat back four opposed to a three with wingbacks, a midfield double pivot with a ten just in front, your typical wingers on each flank and big Mitro up top. So, 4-2-1-3, or however you want to categorise it, I suppose.
Which player do you tip to have a big season for your team?
Mitrovic. It’s an obvious choice but he has his doubters to silence and he’s did a remarkable job of hushing his critics against Liverpool. I think he’s going to smash the Premier League and he’ll bag a minimum of 15 goals.
How do you think you will do this season?
I think it’ll be a tough slog, of course, but I think we’ll stand up to the task. Who knows, I’d like us to finish 15th but let’s face it, abutting above the bottom three will be a success. 15/16th final position.
What are your thoughts on Wolves?
Bruno Lage’s spell has been patchy, but he’s definitely the right man to steady Wolves and truthfully, Wolves are a club Fulham should want to emulate. They’ve bedded themselves into the Premier League and are always striving to develop and improve. In short, I like Wolves and wish them well – just not on Saturday.
Who from Wolves are you worried about playing against?
Pedro Neto’s a baller, a scary one. Full-flight, getting at defenders, he’s terrifying. If he can stay fit, he’ll carry Wolves on the charge and if he shows up against us, we have to be completely switched on. He and Neves are quality.
Score prediction for our game?
I think it’ll be closer than people think. If we can grab another draw, 1-1 perhaps, I’ll be more than pleased. Mitro to equalise in the 85th minute after a Neves banger.