‘He is in good shape’ – Fulham boss pleased with winger’s involvement in Ipswich draw

Marco Silva was pleased with the performance of Adama Traore in Fulham’s 1-1 draw at Ipswich Town on Saturday.

The former Wolves winger was the west London side’s brightest attacking threat in East Anglia.

Traore converted at the back post from Antonee Robinson’s cross in the 32nd minute to cancel out Liam Delap’s opener.

It was the 28-year-old’s first goal of the season.

Traore, who had injury issues last season, has started every Premier League match in the current campaign.

“It was really important for him to have a normal pre-season,” said Fulham head coach Silva. “He is in good shape right now – completely different to last season. He knows I want him to arrive in the

box in the right spots, it is something we have been working with him on.

“It is a nice feeling, for sure, when you arrive where you should be and have the chance to score. He was decisive in other moments too – he created some good moments. A great chance for Rodrigo (Muniz) came from him too.

“He is helping the team and that’s the reason he is playing.”

Traore’s place is set to come under threat from Reiss Nelson, who signed on loan from Arsenal on transfer deadline day.

The South Londoner, born in Elephant & Castle, had looked set for Ipswich until Fulham stepped in because they encountered problems with their £15million deal for Lyon’s Ernest Nuamah.
Nelson’s move includes no option to buy.

The former England U21 international has featured 90 times at senior level for the Gunners.

Fulham sold striker Jay Stansfield, 21, to Birmingham for a fee in excess of £10m.

The Whites also have a sell-on with the England U21 international signing a seven-year contract.