Fulham have conceded a league-high five goals in the final 20 minutes of matches
Alvaro Arbeloa's Fulham faces challenges in closing out games as they prepare for Aston Villa.
Fulham's head coach Alvaro Arbeloa has seen his side recover from a challenging start to the season, achieving two consecutive 1-0 victories after a winless opening six matches. The team struggled defensively, conceding nearly two goals per game, which left them at the bottom of the Premier League table. Arbeloa's initial optimism following a narrow defeat to Chelsea has faded as the team faced further setbacks against Crystal Palace and Ipswich.
Recognising the need for change, Arbeloa has adjusted his tactics, focusing on building a more solid defensive foundation. The team has significantly reduced their expected goals against, allowing only 0.67xG in their last two matches. While these recent games may lack the excitement of earlier fixtures, the coach emphasises that securing points is paramount over entertainment.
Gonzalo Garcia, Fulham's record summer signing, has faced difficulties adapting to the team's new approach. Despite making the second-most off-the-ball runs in the Premier League, he has not scored since his debut against Chelsea. Arbeloa acknowledges the need for improved service to Garcia, particularly from wide positions, to help him convert his opportunities into goals.
Fulham fans are keen to see their team maintain a stronger grip on matches, especially in the closing stages. The Cottagers have conceded a league-high five goals in the final 20 minutes, causing them to drop crucial points. Arbeloa admits that managing the physicality and directness of the Premier League, particularly in the final moments of games, presents a new challenge for him.
As Fulham prepares to face Aston Villa, Arbeloa views this match as a significant test of the team's progress. He respects Villa's manager, whom he considers among the best in the world, and acknowledges the importance of demonstrating the lessons learned from their rocky start. The upcoming match will reveal how well the team has adapted to Arbeloa's strategies.
via Sky Sports