Fulham boss Roy Hodgson continues to focus on a top 10 finish even though European glory is beckoning.
The Cottagers play Atletico Madrid in the Europa League final on May 12 but Hodgson wants a high finish in the Barclays Premier League before then. Fulham now face Stoke at home on Wednesday night before finishing the league campaign with a trip to Arsenal next Sunday.
"Although it is difficult in the immediate aftermath of the semi-final against Hamburg to think of anything else but the meeting with Atletico Madrid that lies ahead, we must complete our domestic season," said Hodgson.
"It is still a very real objective to finish in the top 10 and I believe it is healthy to retain this target.
"The remaining matches will play an important part in our mental and physical preparation for the final, so to maintain a winning mentality throughout would certainly be of benefit."
Striker Bobby Zamora, so much a talisman on their Europa League adventure, missed the game against his old club with an Achilles injury and could even miss out on the final against Madrid.
"The medical team will need to work hard with him to ensure his fitness for the final," admitted Hodgson.
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies