Fulham suffered a damaging 2-3 defeat to Crystal Palace at Craven Cottage this week, a result that leaves them rooted to the bottom of the Premier League. The loss was characterised by defensive errors despite the home side dominating possession and registering 25 shots.
Alvaro Arbeloa's team now sits 19th in the Premier League with 0 points from three games, having lost all three. Their goal difference stands at minus three, having scored four and conceded seven this season. They are already nine points adrift of leaders Manchester City.
Player ratings from the outlet painted a bleak picture for several of Fulham's defensive unit. Goalkeeper Bernd Leno received a score of just 3.5 out of 10, while centre-back Joachim Andersen was also rated 3.5. Full-backs Timothy Castagne and Antonee Robinson were given 4 and 4 respectively. The only defender to emerge with any credit was Calvin Bassey, who earned a 6.
In midfield, Alex Iwobi marked his 100th Premier League appearance for the club with a subdued performance rated 4.5. Across his century of top-flight games for Fulham, the Nigerian has contributed 18 goals and 11 assists. Partner Sander Berge was rated 5. The manager himself did not escape criticism, with Arbeloa handed a 3 out of 10 for his tactical approach.
The sole bright spot in a disappointing team display was forward Josh King. He was awarded a 9 out of 10 and named man of the match after scoring one of Fulham's two goals. His performance offered a rare positive in an otherwise frustrating afternoon. Youngster Shea Charles, with a rating of 7, was the only other player to receive a notably positive review.
Speaking after the match, Arbeloa was frank in his assessment. "If Alvaro is going to make it as a top-flight manager, he’s going to have to start learning quickly," he said. He identified a clear imbalance in his team's approach. "We need to get more street-wise, and it’s boring to say it, but we need to forfeit some of our attacking football for a bit more defensive solidity, the balance has to improve."
The statistics underline his point. While Fulham managed 25 attempts on goal, Palace were far more clinical with just 10 shots, creating six big chances and scoring three times. The seven goals conceded across the opening three fixtures is a major concern. The current standings make for grim reading for supporters.
The schedule offers little respite. Fulham's next fixture is a daunting trip to Anfield to face Liverpool, who are 6th in the table, on September 12. They will have to prepare for that challenge without the experienced Tom Cairney, who remains on the injuries list. Finding a way to stop the defensive leaks will be Arbeloa's immediate priority as he looks at his squad options ahead of the clash with Jurgen Klopp's side.
