Life back in the Premier League got off to a miserable start for Fulham, as Crystal Palace brought them back down to earth with a bump this weekend.

There is a talented squad in place at the Cottage, but Premier League nouse and knowhow is something which will be needed long term, and we at the Transfer Tavern think the club have missed a trick this summer by not signing former defender Chris Smalling.

Smalling has been a mainstay of the United team for a few seasons now, but is no longer guaranteed a start under Jose Mourinho, with the likes of Phil Jones and Eric Bailly ahead of him in the pecking order, and a young Victor Lindelof continuing to improve.

Smalling is a class act though, and with The Cottagers looking to really improve their squad over the course of the campaign, he would slot in very nicely into a back four which was exposed this weekend.

Strong, plenty of experience, and someone who would be welcome back at the club, Smalling would no doubt have been an excellent signing for Fulham, and is someone the club should look to move for in January if they can.

Fulham  fans! What do you think? Good signing? Let us know in the comments!!