Silva: Fulham want to start well

Fulham begin their 2024/25 Premier League campaign with a visit to Manchester United on Friday night. The Cottagers, who finished 13th last time out, are ready for their third successive season in the top flight.

Marco Silva, Fulham manager, insists his side are ready for the start of another year.

“It’s always good to get to this stage and prepare for the start of the Premier League," said Silva.

“We have been preparing for four-and-a-half weeks. It’s been a very good pre-season for us and the environment around the squad is top.”

The Whites took all three points at Old Trafford last season with a 97th-minute winner from Alex Iwobi.

The manager wants to impress the fans but knows it will be a tough test.

He said: “We want to start well at a tough place to go. We were pleased with how we played there last season.

“It’s a good start to the season for the Premier League. We are aware of the demands on us to play United and we will try to make our fans happy.”

Fulham broke their record transfer fee at the start of August when they announced the signing of Emile Smith Rowe from Arsenal.

The attacking midfielder arrived at Craven Cottage for up to £35million.

Silva sees the potential in Smith Rowe if he can stay fit.

“He hasn’t played games consistently so it’s going to be a process for him to be in his best physical condition, but we have already seen that he can make an impact.

“He can make a difference. Two goals in two games is a good start. The main thing for me was his desire to join our football club.

“At his best level, he is going to be a great player for us. When I saw a player of his talent and his desire to come to Fulham, that’s what pushed me to sign him.”