Martin Jol has outlined his vision for Fulham in his first official press conference as manager.
The Dutchman, who was appointed as successor to Mark Hughes a fortnight ago, said that he had always been keen on a return to the Premier League since his dismissal from Spurs in 2007.
"Everybody knew that I would like to come back to England," he said. "I said it when I left like Arnold Schwarzenegger - 'I will be back'. And now I am."
He described Fulham, who finished eighth last season, as a "traditional club" in the vein of Tottenham and West Ham and said he was targeting another top ten finish this season.
“They had a very good season last year, and we all know how well they did the season before that one too," he said, referring to the club's advance to the Europa League final in 2009.
“I have a really good feeling about this club and I want to help add to that success. Fulham is happy, I am happy and hopefully we will stay that way. I am very much looking forward to the challenge.”
Jol's first game in charge will be the home leg of the first round Europa draw with Faroe Islands side NSI Runavik next Thursday.
“It’s an interesting draw, that’s for sure,” he noted. “We will prepare accordingly. We have a busy few days ahead of us, but that’s the job we have been given.
“It’s the second time Fulham have been in Europe in three seasons and that is very positive. It’s a fantastic achievement for the club and we’ll do what we can to get as far as possible. We’re certainly looking forward to getting going.”
Neil Wilkes
