Michael Madl has had to hit the weights in order to adapt to the rigours of the Championship.
The Fulham defender has impressed since joining on loan from Sturm Graz in January but he has not always found it as easy as he has made it look at times.
The English leagues are renowned for being more physical compared to their European counterparts and the 28-year-old has been working behind the scenes to improve that side of his game.
He said: “There are many differences. The pace and physical work are different. In Austria, the referees give about 60 fouls and here it's about five fouls.
“It's really interesting. I'm learning every weekend. I've had to adapt my game. I'm not the biggest defender so I have to do other things to play clever.
“I've had to work hard on the training ground. I need to because a lot of players are two metres tall and 100 kilos. Without it, I have no chance here.”
Fulham are a point above Saturday's opponents MK Dons, who sit in the final relegation spot, meaning defeat will see the Whites drop into the bottom three.
The international break, though, has come at a good time and allowed the squad to regroup, according to Madl.
“We've been working really hard. Everyone knows the situation we are in. We're prepared for MK Dons on Saturday. It's a very important game but I'm looking forward to it,” he added.
“We've done a lot of physical work during the break and we need the power for April so it'll be a hard month. We've been doing tactical work as well.
Fulham v MK Dons
Will kick off in
“The break has reinvigorated the squad. We've had a chance to switch off but we're working hard as well.”
Madl is desperate to improve Fulham's defensive record and help them maintain Championship status and called on fans to roar them on at Craven Cottage.
He said: “Keep on supporting us like in every game and we'll give 100 per cent on Saturday. Together we will do this.”
Craven Cottage will host two 3pm kick-off Sky Bet Championship fixtures at the beginning of April, straight after the international break. Fulham FC take on MK Dons on Saturday April 2 and Cardiff City a week later on Saturday April 9.
Tickets for both these matches are available to purchase on general sale, priced from just £25 adults and from £15 juniors (under 17). Call the Fulham FC Ticket office on: 0843 208 1234 or visit: fulhamfc.com/tickets
