Slavisa Jokanovic was disappointed with Fulham’s performance in the Whites’ 3-1 defeat to Birmingham City at St Andrew’s on the final day of the regular season, but remains upbeat about his side’s chances in the Play-Offs.
“We’re disappointed because we didn’t perform well enough,” said Jokanovic.
“After many games without defeat, it was important to play a good game.
“Birmingham City played well, they moved the ball well, defended narrow, were very organised, scored three goals and completely deserve the victory.
“We can’t be satisfied. We didn’t play a good enough game. We can perform better and I’m sure we’ll be ready for Friday’s game against Derby.
“We didn’t move the ball with enough pace. We tried to do something, but without creating many chances to equalise.
“It’s not easy for the players. Both teams were under pressure, but they did a better job and deserve the three points. For us, we need to be calm, confident, and must accept that this wasn’t our best performance. We just need to keep going and be ready for the next step.
“We can’t be happy that we didn’t win. We’re disappointed that we lost the chance to be promoted today. “The Championship is a complicated competition and Birmingham were fighting to stay in the league. They showed they can be strong and play good football.”
Derby County’s victory over Barnsley ensures they will provide the opposition in the Play-Offs over the two legs, starting at Pride Park on Friday.
“We are more experienced now – it’s our second year in the Play-Offs,” said Jokanovic.
“I can’t compare this season to last, but I believe we’re a good team and can perform better than today.
We can find more pace, create more chances, and be more organised and solid defensively – that’s our target for the next few days.
“I told the players after the game that we must be stronger and be ready to compete – take a shower, rest and be ready for the next step.
This is part of football. Before today, we hadn’t lost in a few months and we need to trust our style.
“I always believe we’ll win the next game and I’m not going to change my mind because we lost one game.
We’ve showed quality and character many times before.”
