Fulham defender Aaron Hughes admits it is little surprise that the Premiership big boys are circling around fellow defender Brede Hangeland, after the Norwegian’s stunning start to the season.

The towering centre half has proved a defensive rock for the Cottagers this campaign, striking up a partnership with Hughes that has seen the Londoners concede just eight goals in their last 14 games.

And Hangeland has also proved a match-winner, striking the decisive goal when Fulham saw off Arsenal back in August.

Hughes said: “People and clubs are talking about Brede and it is full deserved.

“I’m enjoying playing alongside him, and we work tremendously hard in training.

“Since he has come to British football he has adapted really well.

“I thought he did well last season, but this year he has really pushed things on.

“We both know what is expected of us, and I hope the partnership continues.”

Fulham finally earned that elusive away win on Saturday, seeing off Sheffield Wednesday 2-1 in the FA Cup to book a fourth-round tie at non-league Kettering Town.

Andy Johnson grabbed both goals, and Hughes hopes this will signal an upturn in fortunes away from Craven Cottage.

He added: “First and foremost we were delighted to get through.

“We knew it was going to be a tough game, and I have been on the other side of ties like that.

“So it was great to get the result, and it will boost morale no doubt.

“I am not expecting Kettering to be easy either - teams will always raise their game an extra 20 per cent when facing a Premier League side, and we know it will be a battle.”

This weekend it will be back to the bread and butter of the league, and Fulham could climb to seventh if they see off visitors Blackburn on Saturday.

Hughes added: “We were very disappointed when we lost 1-0 at Ewood Park earlier this season.

“But it taught us that we need to concentrate for the full 90 minutes, not 80.

“To be honest none of us are looking at the top of the table - after what happened last year we just want to get 40 points on the board as quick as possible so we are not having to look over our shoulders.”

Fulham’s next three matches: Jan 10 Blackburn Rovers (h), 18 West Ham United (a), 24 Kettering Town (FAC, a)