Midfielder Danny Murphy believes Fulham are making real progress under the management of Roy Hodgson.

The former Finland boss has already strengthened his squad by signing Leon Andreasen, Brede Hangeland and striker Eddie Johnson, and Murphy feels the Cottagers will improve on the form that has seen them fall five points adrift of the Premier League survival places.

He told the club's official website: "He expects good quality and a good work ethic on the training pitch, and off it.

"So I expect the fans will hopefully see us showing that commitment on the pitch in the coming weeks.

"And he's looking to strengthen the squad, which I think we need. One, for competition for places and, two, to give us that bit more quality we've been missing. So everything's looking good.

"The lads are happy, there's a spring in their step. Contrary to belief, the mood isn't doom and gloom. There of course is worry, none of us want to be in this position, but there's an air of optimism about what's around the corner, because we feel we are not far away from being a much better team."