According to Fulham head coach, Claudio Ranieri, his star forward, Aleksandar Mitrovic struggled in Newcastle United due to a lack of playing time.
Speaking to the press, the Italian said, “Aleksandar in Newcastle didn’t do a very good job because when a player comes from another country it’s not easy to adapt immediately to English football. But in Fulham, he’s adapted very, very well. And I hope he can do a very outstanding match.”
“I don’t know if they will give a warm welcome to Aleksandar, but I hope Aleksandar will make a very good match.”
Mitrovic was a bench warmer at Tyneside but started firing on all cylinders ever since he shifted to Craven Cottage last January. The 24-year-old made his move to Fulham permanent this summer and has racked up a tally of 7 goals in 17 Premier League matches.
The forward is due to face up against his former side this weekend. Ranieri further added, “When you play in another country you can touch the ball two, three times. When you play in England one touch is too much, you have to play half-touch. That’s it. And the player who came in had to think about it.”
“You try to transmit this but only the experience, you need six months, maybe one year, to understand this. I hope when a player goes back to his previous club he wants to show something more. I hope for everything for Aleksandar, believe me, I pray.”
See Also: Fulham To Reduce Craven Cottage Capacity In A Bid To Renovate Riverside Stand
