Hodgson expects tense affair

Fulham manager Roy Hodgson has admitted that this weekend's Premier League clash with Birmingham City is a make-or-break game for his side.

The Cottagers, seemingly doomed to relegation last month, have given themselves hope of avoiding the drop by winning on the road at Reading and Manchester City.

However, Hodgson knows victory against City at Craven Cottage is a must, saying: "They're a strong side. They have players who can tackle and are busy in midfield.

"A draw for them might well be a satisfactory result, as they can take the draw and still give themselves a good chance in the final game as they have a good goal difference.

"However, we know that a draw will reduce our chances to the absolute minimum and we'll be looking at all kinds of strange circumstances to give us a chance.

"I think we're a better football team than we were a month ago so, as a result, that also gives us more confidence.

"We're approaching a game that's make or break for both clubs and it's going to be a very tense affair with a lot of nerves but we can't do anything about that.

"But I don't have any fears that the team isn't ready for the game, I don't have any fears that we won't work hard and give our best."