The Tanner Report

Last night in the Capital Cup Fulham disposed of a Sheffield United team that made 10 changes from the side that played Blackpool to earn a tie against Stoke managed by our former boss Mark Hughes. It was good to see Ross MacCormack, who had looked sluggish so far, net two goals and young Moussa Dembele added the third when the Blades were reduced to 9 men. It was our first win in any competition and clean sheet. Victory came on the day  of debut of Tim Ream and the news that Lewis Dunk of Brighton for whom a £5m bid was rejected had signed a 5 year deal for Brighton.

It was a heartening performance but, as glass half empty supporter, I feel bound to say that Lasse Christensen is considerably short of the impressive form of last season: where is that calm mature judgment in the pass, those exciting breakaway runs from midfield, the imposition of an authority that belies his young years? Moussa Dembele missed far more than the one he took. The fullbacks still look unreliable defensively. We made heavy work too in the first half against s scratch side. Less than 6000 attended the game, poor showing even in iffy weather in a competition no one seems to take seriously.

Rotherham on Saturday will be more of an indicator  as to whether Fulham have turned the corner after an indifferent start and can make a challenge or the poor form of last season is continuing and a replacement manager is needed.