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| Fulham Manager Chris Coleman |
Fulham Manager Chris Coleman looked back on his first season in charge of Fulham with a sense of satisfaction.
The former Wales international saw his side finish ninth in the table after a 2-0 win against Bolton.
When Coleman replaced Jean Tigana many were tipping Fulham to be dragged into a relegation battle.
Instead they have grown under Coleman and two goals from Brian McBride emphasised the progress they have made.
Coleman said: "When Jean left a lot of people were saying the French lads were going to jump ship. But they didn't and they have been brilliant.
"There is a lot of team spirit here and they have added to that.
"When we have needed them they have rolled their socks up and helped the team."
McBride has now scored five goals since arriving in the summer after previous spells in England with Everton and Preston.
Coleman said: "Brian is a fantastic lad. He gives 100% every time and I was delighted with his contribution. His goals have taken us up to ninth in the table and we would have settled for that at the start of the season.
"I am thrilled for our fans, they have had to put up with a lot the last couple of years. There has been a lot of turmoil."
Fulham are returning to their traditional home, Craven Cottage, next season and Coleman added: "We are in a good position to attract quality players."
Bolton boss Sam Allardyce was rightly pleased with the progress that has been made on and off the field despite a disappointing end to the season for his side after five successive victories.
"We can't let one poor result cloud a magnificent season," he said. "That's why I'm on the champagne.
"That five-game unbeaten run has taken us to another level and we are creating a little bit more history here.
"We'll never forget the Bolton legends but we are building our own dynasty."
Kevin Davies missed a hatful of chances and Jay-Jay Okocha rattled the bar.
But Bolton were out of luck and Allardyce added: "The game was about not punishing the opposition.
"This is a bit of a jolt but it just shows you what the Premiership is about.
"Fulham caught us on the break twice but I can forgive the team for one poor game although I am disappointed we have finished on a losing note."