Martin Jol believes that Fulham were lucky to finish eighth in the Premier League under Mark Hughes last season, but the Dutchman has set his sights on establishing the club as a consistent top-half team.

After avoiding relegation by goal difference in 2008, the Cottagers have not finished below 12th in the last three campaigns.

The West Londoners currently sit 10th in the Premier League table - a position that Jol hopes to maintain over the coming seasons.

"We are happy to have the points we have. Hopefully we can stay in this position," said the 56-year-old.

"Fulham were lucky to win their last few games last season and that brought them the eighth position.

"What I would like in the future is to be a top-10 side structurally from the start of the season until the end."

Fulham face relegation-battling Bolton Wanderers at the Reebok Stadium later today.

Written by
Robert Summerscales