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Fulham owner Shahid Khan calls on support for Arbeloa

·By Paul Vegas
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Fulham owner Shahid Khan calls on support for Arbeloa

Fulham/X.com

Fulham owner Shahid Khan has publicly backed head coach Álvaro Arbeloa, asking supporters to maintain their faith in the manager ahead of the visit of Hull City to Craven Cottage.

Arbeloa is still waiting for his first Premier League victory, and pressure has grown following Fulham's 2-1 defeat at Ipswich Town. Khan acknowledged the disappointment of that result in a letter published in the programme for the Hull match, but insisted that the club's wider progress should not be overlooked.

Before turning to the immediate fixture, the Fulham owner reflected on the team's recent form, including draws against Liverpool and Manchester United and a Carabao Cup victory over West Ham United.

“That momentum stayed with us for most of Saturday's match at Ipswich, but we all know how it ended. The result was devastating for all of us, and I will not pretend otherwise,” Khan wrote.

He argued that the performance and potential of the squad remained reasons for confidence, despite the team's inability to turn promising spells into points.

“Our squad is strong, although it is still in the process of coming together. We have been in every match, but we have lacked the opportunities needed to finish the job. I believe we will take those opportunities soon, especially if we have our supporters cheering at full volume today and going forward,” he said.

Khan's message comes at a difficult moment for Arbeloa, whose side have struggled to convert competitive performances into their first league win. The owner nevertheless urged supporters to recognise the commitment within the dressing room and give the team the backing it needs.

“Now, as we approach this match against Hull City, I want to reiterate that we are on the right path. The squad has shown character, commitment and ability. We are close, and Saturday's frustration is precisely that: a sign of where we want to be and what we expect of ourselves.

“Today is an opportunity to respond and build momentum,” Khan added.

The Fulham owner also thanked supporters for their continued presence and passionate backing, stressing that the club understands the expectations placed upon it.

“We know how much this club means to you, and our intention is to live up to your expectations. Let us support Álvaro and the squad and begin our comeback today.”

The letter represents a clear public show of confidence in Arbeloa at a time when the team's results have raised questions about his position. Fulham's meeting with Hull offers an immediate chance to respond, but Khan's message makes clear that he believes the manager and squad deserve the opportunity to put their difficult start behind them.