Andy Johnson feels some strong words in the wake of Fulham’s 4-1 thrashing at the hands of Manchester City was the turning point in the club’s campaign.

The England international believes Mark Hughes’ stern pep talk – and a subsequent training ground visit from angry chairman Mohamed Al-Fayed – did the trick. He believes the Whites can mount a serious challenge for a top half finish as Hughes’ methods are now coming to fruition.

“We had a bit of a bad time against Man City – but we have worked on it. The new manager has his own theories and he’s changed how I play a little bit – but you know those sort of things are going to happen. It was never going to be the same as it was under Roy Hodgson.”