The Tanner Report: Leicester City 0 Fulham 2

Though this was not the most exciting of games it was a vital one. Fulham had drawn 6 of their last 9 games and doubts existed why we fared so well against team above us – and so badly against teams below us. As for Leicester, they had lost 6 successive games and grave doubts surrounded the appointment of Ruud van Nistelrooy.

Émile Smith-Rowe rewarded those – like me – who advocated his selection with a brave low-headed goal via Sasa Lukic from a hooked cross from Harry Wilson. Émile has been a bit of a disappointment but his tally of 5 goals in 21 matches is impressive. He is prepared to attack the six yard box – important with only one striker.

Heading was on the agenda after the passing of its best practitioner Denis Law. Raul Jimenez would rank amongst Fulham’s best but Malcolm MacDonald, Allan Clarke and Brian McBride were no mugs with the ‘canister’.

The best was probably Chris Guthrie but heading was not just his principal asset but his only one.

Adoma Trioré added a second with a cushion volley and by the end Leicester  fans were leaving the King Power Stadium in droves.

With Sean Dyche and Gary O’Neil available, Van Nistelrooy’s days look numbered

Fulham play Manchester United next at the odd time of 7.00 pm next Sunday. That fixture always had a magical ring and over the years has rarely disappointed.