Fulham Head Coach Scott Parker conceded defeat against a Manchester City side that oozed pedigree.
Two first half goals from Raheem Sterling and Kevin De Bruyne had the hosts in cruise control, but Parker was satisfied with the way his side hung in the game and started to put their stamp on proceedings.
“City look ominous most weeks,” he admitted. “The challenge that we faced today was always going to be there. They’re a fantastic team with big quality. I’m disappointed to go a goal down so early on.
“I have nothing but praise for my team in the way they stuck to it and showed a bit of courage. Once you go a couple of goals down against this team, they can put you to the sword.
“I want to put a stamp on games and this division. My players and this team want to try their best to do that. I asked the players individually to put their personality on the game.
A lot of teams come here, and because of the quality, the game can pass you by a bit. There’s no shame in losing against this team but there is shame in not leaving them with something. To a man my team tried to show their moments.”
The Head Coach tinkered with defensive shape in an attempt to shut out the fluid City breaks. A formula that was somewhat effective in the second half.
“One of the main things was being solid out of possession,” he stated. “In attack to go with a split striker in Ade [Lookman] and Cav [Cavaleiro] to try and cause their full backs some issues. They can put a choke hold on you with how aggressive they are. We changed it around in the second half and it worked a bit better for us. We were a bit braver in the second half, we tried to get more control.”
Aleksandar Mitrovic was missing from the action today, with questions being posed as to what the situation is with the Serbian frontman. Parker brushed any hint of doubt aside suggesting he will play a big part this season.
Fulham Head Coach Scott Parker
“Mitrovic isn’t injured, he said. “It’s purely how I saw the game and what was suited for the team’s personnel. That was how I saw it best to cause them problems. There will be discussion around Aleks but he has a big part to play for
us this year.”
Fulham Head Coach Scott Parker
The 40-year-old knew his stopper would be busy between the sticks today, and Alphonse Areola came up with a solid display to keep the scores respectable.
“Every top team that comes here will know their keeper is going to have to have a big game. Alphonse had a big game today and he pulled off some big saves.”