Aaron Hughes says it is vital Fulham hold on to Dimitar Berbatov if they are to get out of the relegation mire.
The Bulgarian's agent this week revealed that the striker would be looking for a move in the January window and Hughes says he hopes it does not happen.
“I think tonight he showed his performances are brilliant for us – not only on the ball but off the ball,” Hughes said after Wednesday night's unlucky 2-1 defeat to Tottenham at Craven Cottage.
“He's a vital player for us, obviously. You've seen the contribution he makes and the role he has in our team.
“We need all our players at the minute to perform at the highest levels that they can and I thought tonight we got that from everyone.”
Looking back on another disappointing result, Hughes drew encouragement from a vastly improved performance.
“We were unlucky not to get something,” said the defender. “It would have been nice to walk away with at least a point.
“We hoped to get more, but first and foremost we wanted to put in a performance with a lot of energy, because that's what's been disappointing in the last few games.
“Sometimes the energy levels weren't up there. Today they were.
“It took two good strikes to undo us, so we are a little disappointed we didn't get anything, but there are a lot of positives to be taken from it.”
Tickets are still available for this Sunday’s Craven Cottage clash with Aston Villa, 1.30pm kick-off.
Visit www.fulhamfc.com/tickets or call: 0843 208 1234. Tickets can also be purchased in person from the ticket office (check opening times online).
