A confident Tyrese Francois is aiming to secure a regular spot in Marco Silva’s starting line up as Fulham prepare for the start of their Championship season against Middlesbrough on Sunday.
The Australian midfielder has been one of the beneficiaries of Silva’s appointment at Craven Cottage as he has impressed the Portuguese head coach during pre-season and starred into last weekend’s final friendly against Charlton Athletic. Francois told FFCTV:
“It’s been really enjoyable. It’s been very tough – as it always is. It is good to get some games for the first team in the friendlies and build on the season. I’ve been with the first team before, but it’s definitely different this season. I’m older, more confident and hoping to get some game time.
He rather matter-of-factly described his beautiful ball that played in Fabio Carvalho for the only goal of the game against the Addicks:
“I’ve played with Fabio for the last two or three seasons now so I know he makes that run – and the run’s almost forced me to play that ball. Happily, he finished off it, so it was a nice goal. We’re quite close off the pitch, that chemistry for sure really helps, no doubt.”
Francois was well of praise for Fulham’s new management team and feels positive about the campaign to come.
“It’s been really enjoyable. They trust me. They’ve changed the way we play – the season should be enjoyable for everyone and hopefully we can reach the end goal, which is get promoted. I’m really excited. Personally, I just want to get as many games under my belt as possible. An injury-free season where I can play loads of football this season.”
The young midfielder knows not to underestimate
They will be a tough side. They were last season, they always are. They have a very experienced manager – it will be a tough game, but I’m sure we can do it. Every game this season, if we play our game – the quality we have in the dressing room, I think we’ll overcome most teams.
