Fit-again Philippe Christanval is desperate to help new Fulham boss Roy Hodgson keep the club in the Premiership.

The France international defender told fulhamfc.com: "He has respect for the players and for the Club. He communicates well with all the players, especially on a tactical level, and he encourages us to play football. What he asks of us is that we are confident in our ability, not to be afraid to express ourselves on the pitch, but also to keep shape and to be disciplined.

"I think everybody is happy since the new Manager arrived. Even in his first game in charge, against Chelsea, although the team didn't take any points, I thought we played much better. Everyone is happy, but now, of course, we need some good results."