AARON HUGHES believes Fulham won't suffer burn-out next season as a result of the extra European workload.
The Whites qualified for the Europa League,despite Saturday's home defeat to Everton.
Northern Ireland defender Hughes experienced the demands of added fixtures and travel when he was at Newcastle,and he is sure Roy's boys will cope.
"Maybe it was because I was younger then," he joked, "But you get used to playing Sunday, Thursday, Sunday, Thursday.
"At Newcastle,we got to a quarter-final and semi-final in the Uefa Cup and our league form was okay. I think the first year we still finished fifth or sixth and got in for the next year.
"It'll be tough. Yes, there will be lots of games, but, at the same time,when you get into a rhythm, you just become accustomed to it.
"They come thick and fast and sometimes that's better than having to wait two weeks."
It is assumed Roy Hodgson will have to draft in extra bodies to help his current squad through next season's Europa League commitments - which can mean an extra 19 games for any team making the final. But Hughes does not see it that way.
He added: "There have been a lot of lads waiting for their chance on the bench, so we do have options. It's just a question of hoping we don't pick up any injuries.
"Time will tell in terms of comings and goings and the manager will do what he feels he has to do to prepare us best for the season.
"But as long as we keep the ethics of this year,we'll always be a tough team to beat and do reasonably well."