Fulham head coach Alvaro Arbeloa has overseen a dramatic shift in his team's approach after a difficult start to the season. Having lost five of their opening six Premier League games and conceding almost two goals per match, Fulham found themselves bottom of the table. A more conservative, defence-first strategy has seen them secure two gritty 1-0 wins against Coventry and Hull, reducing goals conceded from 1.69 to 0.67 per game.
"We have been learning from our mistakes, and obviously we are a team in a process," Arbeloa told Sky Sports. "We are improving, we're working hard and for us to be a very solid team is so important." The Spanish manager emphasized adapting to his players' qualities, noting that while Fulham may not be the best in open games, they perform better controlling the ball and transitions.
Record summer signing Gonzalo Garcia remains goalless since his promising debut against Chelsea. Despite making the second-most off-the-ball runs in the Premier League, the 22-year-old striker has struggled with Fulham's more reserved approach. Arbeloa believes the team can provide better service, especially from wide areas, and stressed that goals will come as Garcia continues to contribute to the team's overall play.
Fulham fans are eager for more attacking potency, particularly after the team conceded a league-high five goals in the final 20 minutes of matches, dropping five points during that period.
Source: Sky Sports Champions League · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing