Fulham boss Lawrie Sanchez is grateful to chairman Mohamed Al Fayed for his backing in the summer market.

"People see our outlay of £24million but we have got back £7million or £8million from selling Franck Queudrue, Heidar Helguson and Michael Brown," he said.

"The transfer money wasn't given to me because it was me, it was given to the manager who was in charge this season.

"At the top level the chairman realised the squad needed improving.

"The slide had taken place over a number of years and last season we went so close to relegation, which could have cost us £50million.

"On that basis it was decided a £20million investment in the team was needed. I was glad I was given the chance to do that.

"We've invested in nine players with one big signing. The squad needed changing, without change we wouldn't improve on last year."