Fulham head to Anfield with Álvaro Arbeloa insisting that three defeats should not be allowed to define a project he believes will take far longer than the opening weeks of a Premier League season.
Arbeloa keeps focus on Fulham’s task at Anfield
The Spanish manager is under early pressure after Fulham lost each of their first three league fixtures, leaving the Cottagers in the relegation places before a demanding visit to Liverpool this weekend. Supporters made their frustration clear after last week’s 3-2 home defeat by Crystal Palace, but Arbeloa said his attention remains firmly on putting results right rather than counting down his time in the job.
“This is a hugely important match for us,” Arbeloa said on Friday. “We have put in a lot of work this week, while knowing there are elements of our football that need improving and correcting. We are producing enough chances to win games, yet we are not winning them. Both things are true. We understand the reasons and what has to change, and that has been our work since day one.”
He maintained that a first victory would not remove the need for improvement. “Winning one match would not mean everything is perfect,” he said.
Asked whether he felt the club would give him enough time to build the side he wants, Arbeloa answered with a reminder of why he accepted the Fulham post. “I am thinking about Anfield, not about any other deadline. I did not come here for three matches or one month. I came to make the club and the team better, and that is where I put my energy.”
Arbeloa also appealed for Craven Cottage to be with his players after the boos that followed the Palace loss. Having previously played in the Premier League, he said he knew first-hand how awkward Fulham could make life for visiting teams when their home crowd was behind them.
“We are stronger when the supporters back us,” he said. “The history of this club and its fans mattered to me when I came here. I played against Fulham in this league and knew how difficult Craven Cottage could be. We need that support now. I am pleased with the players’ attitude and we are working on it. Above all, we must start winning matches.”
SEO Title: Álvaro Arbeloa insists Fulham project needs time before Liverpool trip
SEO Description: Fulham manager Álvaro Arbeloa says he did not join for a short spell as his winless side prepare to face Liverpool at Anfield after three Premier League defeats.
