Fulham manager Martin Jol says he is fully prepared to disappoint the likes of Bryan Ruiz in order to accommodate Darren Bent.
The England striker came off the bench to score in the 3-1 defeat to Arsenal on Saturday – his first goal since joining on loan from Aston Villa
Ruiz is yet to feature this season and Jol admits it is a challenge to find the right balance in attack.
“Sometimes you have to disappoint one or two players to play with two strikers, but I feel I will always do what is best for the team,” Jol said.
“I would prefer to have Darren Bent on board than not have him on board and play with three midfield players.
“Sometimes it helps to play with three midfield players of course, because a lot of teams change their style and play that way – so it is always a challenge.
“Adel Taarabt is not a workhorse, but if you saw him against Sunderland he was working his socks off and hopefully he can do that.
“We will have to find the right balance. It’s not easy but if we can do that with them and they can work for the team then we will see.”
Costa Rica international Ruiz made 31 appearances for the Whites last season and is still likely to play a role this term.
Jol added: “Ruiz can play number 10, but he can also play on the right as well.
“But of course it doesn’t make it easier because I have got Ashkan Dejagah, Damien Duff and Pajtim Kasami too.
“It’s about balance and we will find the right balance.”
