Fulham striker Erik Nevland is hoping to fire in the goals that will push the Cottagers to safety.

Fulham are currently 19th in the Barclays Premier League, six points adrift of safety. However, the former Manchester United striker is determined to start hitting the back of the net and save the club from relegation.

Despite only playing a handful of matches for United, the Norwegian international spent two-and-a-half years at Old Trafford where he played alongside the immensely successful triumvirate of Dwight Yorke, Andy Cole and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

The experience Nevland gained from playing under Red Devils manager Sir Alex Ferguson enabled him to go on and score 97 goals in just over 200 matches during eight years with Viking FK and FC Groningen.

And Nevland was pleased to answer Roy Hodgson’s call to return to the Premier League, having helped steer Viking FK from the brink of relegation from the Norwegian Premier League while Hodgson was in charge there.

Nevland said “It’s the Premier League. It’s the biggest league and the biggest stage to play on and it’s what every player wants.

“It was obviously very important coming here and knowing Roy already, I have worked with him before, I knew what I could expect from him, and he knows what he can expect from me.

“He brings a definite sense of organisation to the team. Everyone is in the right place and knows exactly what their job in the team is. He brings the team together and I think a united team is important any time, but especially so when you’re struggling at the bottom.”

The 30-year-old added: “There is a lot more competition for places here than there was at [Viking] Stavanger. Here I am one of the group, whereas at Stavanger I was one of the more recognised players. I am looking forward to the challenge that awaits.

“I hope I can get on a good run of form, be part of the team and do what I can for the team. I think I am a good team player, so any way I can help, I will.

“I have to get used to the physical side of the game again in England, it’s a bit more than what I have been used to playing in Holland or Norway, but I need to get used to it quickly so I can make an important contribution to the team.”