Fulham are one of the three teams that secured a promotion to the Premier League, the other two being – Cardiff City and Wolverhampton Wanderers. The team finished in the third place and after beating Aston Villa 1-0 in the playoffs final, they have successfully booked a spot for themselves in the English top-flight.
They scored 79 goals – which was the Championship’s second-highest tally after Wolves. They owe a part of their success to Serbian international, Aleksandar Mitrovic, as the striker scored 12 goals in the 20 games he played for the Cottagers.
Mitrovic was signed on loan from Newcastle United as he couldn’t find his form at St. James’ Park. However, the move to Fulham helped him rediscover his strengths and this will boost his morale as he goes into the World Cup.
To increase Fulham’s chances of staying in the Premier League for another season, they will need to secure the signing of a striker. Their best bet would be to sign the Serbian on a permanent deal from Newcastle, who are demanding at least £20m for the striker. But why him? Here are three reasons why his signing will help Fulham.
Current Form
The fact that he scored 12 goals from 20 games shows that the striker is in good touch. Over the course of the last few months, Mitrovic got accustomed to Fulham’s style of playing and he did adjust pretty quickly. His form will also provide him with the confidence he needs to get back to scoring ways in the Premier League.
Fulham will be aware that Mitrovic’s performances could lift the spirits of the team and they will need him in order to survive in the Premier League for a long time.
Playing Style
The Serbian bears a striking resemblance to Atletico Madrid striker, Diego Costa. Like the Spaniard, he is also quite physical and doesn’t shy away from challenges. He’s adept at bullying defenders and shaking them off.
This type of physicality and playing style will play a key role in the Premier League. His chemistry with the Cottagers also seems to be impressive. Furthermore, Mitrovic’s presence could allow Fulham to play him up front as a lone striker with Fonte playing a false nine. By doing so, the duo will be able to make supporting runs and find positions to score goals.
Budget
The Serbian International is unlikely to cost Fulham a great deal of money. It is also a move that will guarantee success as he has already proven himself at Craven Cottage. If Fulham can find the money in their kitty to spend on him, Mitrovic will be a solid long-term investment.
Fulham must ready their ammunition if they are to compete with other teams in the Premier League. The signing of Mitrovic will be a step in the right direction if he continues his excellent form with the Cottagers.
