Fulham remain rooted to the bottom of the Premier League following a 2-0 defeat to West Ham at the weekend.
The Cottagers squandered a number of chances in the first half and fell behind thanks to Robert Snodgrass curling past Sergio Rico after just 12 minutes. The Hammers doubled their lead shortly after through Michail Antonio, the Englishman was left unmarked for an easy finish. Claudio Ranieri’s men rarely threatened after the interval and were condemned to yet another defeat in the Premier League.
Defensive issues continue to plague the London side – they are the only team in England’s top four division who haven’t kept a single clean sheet this season. Both goals conceded against Manuel Pellegrini’s men were on the counter-attack – despite shipping 42 goals already this season – Fulham remain just three points from safety. A strong January transfer window could help Ranieri steady the ship and steer them away from danger.
One man who should be on his shortlist is Montpellier defender – Pedro Mendes. Valued at just £5.4m by Transfermarkt, the 28-year-old has developed into a crucial player for his side since joining from Rennes last summer for just £900k. The Portuguese excelled during his debut season with his new employers and has continued his fantastic form into the new campaign.
The centre-back would add some much-needed stability to the Fulham back four if Ranieri could lure him to England in January. Mendes loves to get stuck in, winning 2.2 tackles per game in Ligue 1 this season, highlighting the protection he would offer the Fulham goal. The defender also reads the game well, completing 1.2 interceptions per game on average (WhoScored). Thanks to his strength and jumping reach, the former Sporting Lisbon man should have no trouble adapting to the physicality of the Premier League.
Approaching the prime of his career, Mendes is a player Fulham must take a closer look at.
Fulham fans, thoughts?
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