Fulham made a losing start to life back in the Premier League, going down 2-0 at home to a ruthless Palace side. Here’s how we rated each Whites player.
Saved well with his legs to deny Wilfried Zaha, but was troubled by a looping Christian Benteke header and a snap-shot from Patrick van Aanholt. Beaten by a near-post rising shot but had little chance with the breakaway second goal.
A nice early shot had Wayne Hennessey scrambling and he put in some telling crosses. Looks eager to take on the role vacated by Ryan Fredericks, but faded a little after a bright opening.
Fans warmed to him immediately. Some fine interceptions and solid challenges suggested he could be a great addition to the side this term, but he allowed Jeffrey Schlupp past him for Palace’s first goal.
Watchful and composed alongside Chambers for the most part, and decent on the ball, as is the minimum requirement of this Fulham side. A reasonable baptism.
Some early signs that his link-up play with Ryan Sessegnon could prove fertile ground this season, and one touchline tackle proved he has steel to back up the guile. Replaced by Luciano Vietto for final 20 minutes after picking up a knock.
Much is expected of Seri and the first signs are very good. Looked a little uncertain about his positioning early on but grew into the match to offer an N’Golo Kante-esque presence in midfield. Never far away from the action. Given a great ovation when he was substituted near the end.
Did not have a big say in the game. Seri seemed to carry out many of the duties that are usually his domain.
A busy first-half contribution from the former Chelsea man and World Cup winner. The German was taken off after a decent hour’s shift.
For once, the Fulham skipper was not quite able to bend proceedings to his will or create the openings he is so good at identifying. Outshone by Seri, who was more influential.
Good link-up play with debutant Bryan down the left flank, but will have better days. Palace were very careful to keep the youngster in check.
The £22m Serb looked on the money from minute one. Almost got off the mark with a firm effort after Schurrle had drilled in a low cross to him and fashioned a couple of chances out of nothing by outmuscling defenders. A low header from a Bryan cross almost sneaked in.
Came on for Schurrle after an hour. Sent one curling effort inches over the bar and looked dangerous cutting in from the flanks. Could be a good option for Slavisa Jokanovic in the months ahead.
This post was last modified on 03/12/2018