Fulham defender Aaron Hughes claims boss Mark Hughes is the reason for team’s improvement

Aaron Hughes of Fulham(Getty Images)

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Fulham defender Aaron Hughes has heaped praise on manager Mark Hughes for inspiring them to their recent improvement in the Premier League, which has seen them move clear of the relegation zone.

Boss Hughes had a difficult start to his reign as manager as the team became involved in a relegation battle halfway through the season, but recent performances have seen the Cottagers move four points clear of the drop zone.

The centre-half believes that his manager’s tactics are the reason for the team’s up-turn in form, something that was noticeable in the 1-1 draw against Manchester City.

He told the Evening Standard: “This game was another good example of what happens when we do the things the manager is asking us to do. If you stay on the front foot, then you do get positive results.

“It’s something the manager has been getting us to do more over the course of his time here. It has been a development of the team and it’s slowly but surely come together, which is why we’ve been getting some good results over the past couple of months.”

Fulham were well beaten earlier in the season against City and the fans would have been forgiven for thinking the same fate was to befall their team when they conceded against the run of play on Sunday.

Defender Hughes, though, was delighted with the team’s response to going a goal down.

“What’s important is your reaction afterwards,” he added. “You have to get on with it, not panic or suddenly try to change your style of play.

“We got the early goal in the second half, which gave us something to build on and try to add to, although at the same time staying wary that they did pose a big threat, especially with the lads they had up front. It was a case of keeping the balance right and I thought overall we did that well.”