Fulham fans have really taken to João Palhinha since the Portuguese international made the move from Sporting Club de Lisbon to Craven Cottage this summer and, judging by a four-page interview in A Bola, the feeling is mutual.

Palhinha has been instrumental in the superb start to the Premier League season made by Marco Silva’s men, leading the top flight in terms of successful tackles and expertly avoiding any further bookings by adjusting immaculately to English officialdom having quickly racked up five cautions. The holding midfielder told the Portuguese sports daily that loves hearing his name sung by the Fulham faithful:

“I feel the affection of the fans in the stadium, I already hear songs that they sing with my name and that is so special and so different from what happens in Portugal. It’s very special to hear these songs, something that is reflected on the field, it moves us much more. I just try to repay all the affection they give me. I am very grateful, I want to continue to do my work and that they make even more chants with my name.”

Palhinha, who again referenced Silva’s influence in persuading him to sign for Fulham having coached him as he coming through the Sporting youth ranks, also had some special words for Craven Cottage.

“It’s a special, iconic London club, with a wonderful stadium even though it’s not one of the biggest in the Premier League. But it is a historic stadium and everyone, family and friends who come to see the games, feel a special atmosphere inside the stadium. I’m very happy, the people at the club and the fans have treated me very well, they make me feel the affection they have for me and that’s all reflected on the pitch. I feel even more motivated. And the respect they have is very great. I feel grateful for that.”