Tom Cairney embracing Fulham competition for places

The former Hull City midfielder was one of the most important reasons for Fulham gaining promotion to the Premier League last season, and was rewarded for his performances by being given a new five-year contract in July.

Since even signing that contract, the competition for places in the starting XI at the club has become immense, with the 'Cottagers' bringing 5 new players in on dealine day alone, and the captain admits that he was as surprised as any at the volume of additions.

"I was sat watching it just like everyone else, like 'another one'. It was exciting. It's really good. Being a player you want to play with the best players and against good players as you can." he told 'Sky Sports'.

"You think, 'wow, it's even harder to stay in the team,' but if you want to stay in this league for a long time you need that competition for places, you need quality."

Cairney went on to admit that it will take a while for the new players to settle in to life at the club, with only 5 of the 12 additions having any experience in the Premier League prior to this season.

The team will get a chance to redeem themselves after an opening-day defeat to Crystal Palace, when they take on Tottenham at Wembley on Saturday.