Roy must remain - Hangeland

Brede Hangeland has led the chorus of pleas for Roy Hodgson to stay at Craven Cottage by warning Fulham it is imperative they keep their revered manager.

Hodgson's reputation has soared since guiding the club to their highest top-flight finish and the final of the Europa League, while operating on a modest budget. While some of Fulham's over-achieving players may also now attract interest from rival clubs, Hangeland insists their newly-crowned manager of the year remains the key asset.

"I don't know what will happen now but I hope he stays because he's been so important to the success we've had over the last two years," said Hangeland. "Probably the most important thing for us over the summer is to make sure that he stays."

The Norway defender continued: "Roy's the main reason we reached the Europa League final, it's as simple as that.

"We have a good group of players who have worked hard but it's all masterminded by him. He's done really well."

Former England left-back Paul Konchesky is one of several players who has seen his career revived by Hodgson's arrival.

"Roy is a big factor for the players and for the club," said Konchesky.

"He's done well for the two and a half years he's been here and hopefully we can keep him and kick on again next year.

"The work he puts us through on the training ground and the squad he's built make him stand out.

"Whoever plays, they know exactly what they're doing. We've stuck together and that comes from the manager and the staff."