Fulham boss Chris Coleman says Charlton Athletic made life difficult for his side on Saturday.

The former Wales international saw his side battle away for a goalless draw with their London neighbours at Craven Cottage.

The Addicks had the better of the chances on the day, but a fine performance in goal from Edwin van der Sar kept the visitors off the scoresheet while The Cottagers failed to beat Dean Kiely with their opportunities.

Coleman added that Fulham supporters need to have more realistic expectations of what his side are able to achieve this season, with the club six points above the relegation zone at this stage.

“I think it was one of those games when we kept passing each other out,” Coleman said.

“They made it hard for us and we just could not break them down.

“Are we expected to be in the top six? We had a great season last year and finished ninth, with a good cup run and that was a magnificent season for us. The season before we finished 14th and had spent millions.

“I can hear what the fans are saying, they don’t like the formation, they expect more and want a season like last year – but it is not always going to be like that.

“It has taken Charlton a long time to get to where they are and it is not going to happen for us overnight. We are not going to finish top 10 every year.

“I understand what the fans are talking about, but I hope the expectation levels are not getting like they were a couple of seasons ago, that we are going to be the Manchester United of the south and all that – we mustn’t get carried away.

“The chairman has spent millions of pounds to get us where we are. He has done that, and probably won’t be able to do that again.

“We have to show we are a bit clever and have just to make sure we continue progressing.

“There is a lot of work still to be done and a lot of points to play for.”