Fulham ready for return to the top flight, says Aluko

FULHAM can guarantee a play-off spot in the Championship tomorrow and Sone Aluko believes they are the team to fear in the race for promotion to the Premier League.

The Whites will be assured of a top-six finish if they beat west London rivals Brentford at Craven Cottage.

Fulham are flying under Slavisa Jokanovic and four straight wins, including a 4-1 victory at Huddersfield last weekend, means they are favourites to go up with the bookmakers.

Aluko ( above) is confident Fulham will handle that weight of expectation and follow Brighton and Newcastle into the top-flight.

“The play-offs is just the first target,” said Aluko. “Once we have achieved that target the next step is to get into the Premier League, which is the ultimate aim.

“We have been successful already this season but we believe we can go up. I will put my neck on the line because I think we are good enough to go up and play in the Premier League next year. Failure is a strong word but I will be disappointed if we miss out.”

Fulham have an excellent record against the other teams in the play-off positions and that adds to their belief this season could end with a return to the top flight.

They have beaten Huddersfield 5-0 at home and 4-1 away and could yet face them in the play-off semi-finals. They face Sheffield Wednesday away on the final day next weekend.

Aluko said: “That record gives us confidence. Brighton and Newcastle have gone up but when we are at our best I think we have been the best team in the league.”