Fulham boss hails slimline McCormack

Manager Felix Magath believes the derby victory at Brentford could be a turning point for Fulham and Ross McCormack.

Striker McCormack’s 67th-minute winner – his first goal since his big-money move from Leeds – took the Whites into the third round of the Capital One Cup.

And it eased the pressure on Magath, whose side arrived at Griffin Park having lost all four of their Championship matches this season.

McCormack struggled for fitness and form in previous games but looked much sharper as his team came on strong in the second half and clinched a deserved win.

McCormack savoured his first goal for his new club
McCormack savoured his first goal for his new club

“For every striker it’s important to score. When you don’t score you’re not so confident, so we’re very happy he managed it today and scored the winner,” said Magath.

“Besides the goal he looked dangerous. He has no problem going the 90 minutes, he’s in good shape, has lost some weight in the last few weeks and is very happy. At the beginning of July he was a bit heavy.

“Every striker has periods when it doesn’t work. I know he is a very good striker and he will score goals.

“For us and for him, the fact he scored today I think helps everybody to get more confidence and play better than before.

“It helps the team and the club that he is now in a good situation and in good shape.”

Magath also shrugged off speculation about his future and again insisted he has the full support of club owner Shahid Khan.

The pair spoke on Monday and Magath believes he will be given time to turn Fulham’s fortunes around.

“I know he has supported me, so I have no worries about some news [reports],” said the German.

“But I like to win and hate to lose. Without results I cannot relax.”

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