PREM: Fulham v Bournemouth preview

Fulham vs Bournemouth preview

Slavisa Jokanovic has played down the significance of Fulham owner Shahid Khan's show of support ahead of his side hosting Bournemouth in the Premier League on Saturday.

Last week's damaging 4-2 defeat at Cardiff left Fulham in the bottom three and followed reports the manager's job was already at risk.

Fulham host Bournemouth on Saturday when they will again be expected to secure three valuable points, despite Khan's move to ease the pressure on Jokanovic by insisting he remains convinced of his abilities.

The fact that Fulham spent large sums of money on new players following their promotion contributed to perceptions their manager was struggling, but Khan wrote in his programme notes for the Bournemouth fixture: "Don't believe anything you read.

"The sensational and fictional headlines related to Slavisa; I'm in equal parts amused, astonished and disappointed (by them).

When asked about Khan's comments on Thursday, Jokanovic said: "It's great. (But) generally I'm not the kind of person who needs a shoulder for support.

"I am calm, I do my work and live in the present but they are great words from the owner's side."

Bournemouth's good start to the season was checked last time out by the stalemate with Southampton and manager Eddie Howe expects an improved performance in west London.

"Last week was a really good reminder that we have to be at our best to win games in this league," he said.

"We're pleased to this point. It's been a pleasant start but that's all it is. We know how quickly football can change.

"Everyone is very closely knit together at this football club - it's a special club. I love working with the players - their attitude is second to none.

"I have a lot of respect for Fulham and their manager, their style of play draws a lot of praise and I have a lot of respect for that way of working."

Fulham's only confirmed absentee for Saturday is injured left-back Joe Bryan. Tom Cairney has returned to full training but faces a late fitness test.

Bournemouth have no major injury concerns but Howe may look to shuffle his pack following the 0-0 draw with Southampton.

The Cherries boss admitted a couple of players picked up knocks in the game against Saints while Junior Stanislas and Jordon Ibe are pushing for their first Premier League starts of the season.