Sascha Riether reckons Clint Dempsey can score the goals to help keep Fulham in the Premier League.
The American ace has rejoined the Cottagers on a two-month loan deal from MLS side Seattle Sounders and could play in this afternoon's FA Cup clash at Norwich.
Dempsey smashed 60 goals during his five years with the Cottagers before his £6million switch to Spurs in 2012.
However, the Texan is back in SW6 and Riether hopes his new team-mate can boost their survival hopes.
“We put a lot of crosses into the box and create chances, and he can be the player to score goals,” said the German defender. “I hope he will do a great job like he did before.
“He wants to do well for this club. He’s trained very well and is a fantastic player. I hope he can help us.”
Dempsey could start at Carrow Road as boss Rene Meulensteen plans to rings the changes following the win against West Ham on New Year’s Day.
However, Riether insists the competition isn’t a distraction from their basement battle.
He added: “I don’t think it’s a hindrance. A cup is an opportunity to get into Europe.
“It will be a hard game – every game against a fellow Premier League club is difficult. We’ll go there hoping to get into the next round. That’s our goal.”
