Zoltan Gera has warned Damien Duff that the Irish winger has a fight on his hands for the wide midfield berth at Fulham.

I’d dispute the journalist’s contention that Clint Dempsey is certain to start as he missed the United States’ final World Cup qualifier last night having picked up an injury at West Ham, but the battle between Gera and Duff could be very interesting indeed. Duff looked a certainty to secure a regular place in the Fulham starting line-up having marked his move to Craven Cottage with an assist merely seconds after coming on against Amkar Perm and scoring a terrific goal against Everton, but Gera has taken his opportunity well since the former Newcastle winger was injured against Arsenal.

Gera, who retired from international football today after not being selected for Hungary against Denmark last night, looked impressive as a substitute against the Gunners and continued his good form with a goal at West Ham in the Whites’ last league outing. The Hungarian knows that he needs to improve on a disappointing first season with Fulham.

I didn’t play good enough last season. I know I can do much better, and in the last three games I think I’ve shown what I can do.

I’ve been working hard and waited for my chance. I feel much better now. I feel fitter, and have more confidence than last year and earlier this season.

I hope I’ve found my place in the team and can continue the level of performance.

Duff should be in contention to return from his calf injury after playing the full ninety minutes for the Republic of Ireland in their 0-0 draw with Montenegro in Dublin last night.

Gera also believes that Jimmy Bullard’s decision to swap Fulham for Hull, for whom he could make a return to the Cottage on Monday night, was misguided.

He was injured last year, but if he comes back and plays first-team football you can say it was a good decision. But for me Fulham was a good move.