Fulham defender Brede Hangeland has described the game against Manchester United as their most anticipated of the season.

The Cottagers have just seven games left and would realistically need just one more win to secure their Premier League status.

Fulham have enjoyed a good record against United at Craven Cottage in recent years, but have found their trips to the Theatre of Dreams less rewarding.

Mark Hughes’ team have lost just one of their last six Premier League outings and Hangeland is urging his team-mates to continue their recent revival.

“The match against United is arguably the game of the season,” Hangeland said.

“Manchester United are the team that everyone wants to beat. Old Trafford is one of those special grounds, but we’re not going there as tourists, we’re going there with genuine ambitions of doing well.

“We’ve done well against them at the Cottage, but not so well at their place – so it is about time that we came away with something. We’re playing well at the moment, so I can see no reason why we can’t.”

Fulham beat Blackpool convincingly last Sunday and were inspired by a brace from fit-again Bobby Zamora.

That result moved them to within touching distance of safety but the towering defender is aware there is still work to be done in order to secure their Premier League status.

“Sunday’s win did much for our position in the table, but that could still change – it’s that tight,” added Hangeland.

“We still need to pick up points and Old Trafford would be a good place to do that.”