SONE ALUKO says Fulham learned from their mistakes against Reading in the play-offs last season — as the two sides clash again today.
The Cottagers went into their semi-final against the Royals as favourites but ended up crashing out 2-1 on aggregate as boss Jaap Stam’s men stifled their attack.
And Aluko admits the Fulham dressing room still rue not making the final, despite being proud of their campaign.
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Now the West Londoners are hoping to kick start another promotion charge by getting revenge at the Madejski this afternoon.
Forward Aluko said: “Reading worked hard, had a game plan to frustrate us — and it worked.
“At the start of last season we weren’t tipped to be anywhere near the play-offs.
“But we believed in ourselves and knew we would get there. We played very good football en route. Overall we were happy with how we performed — although of course we weren’t content with how it ended.
“The goal is to build on last season. We’ve kept hold of a lot of key players but we’re still a few short from where we would like to be.
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“I’m sure the club is working hard to bring more players in now.
“The aim is to get promoted this time — so first and foremost that is the automatic places — but, if not, it’s the play-offs again.”
Fulham retained star midfielder Tom Cairney and whizkid left-back Ryan Sessegnon, 17, who both signed new contracts.
The Cottagers also managed to fend off interest from Reading, ironically, to keep hold of Aluko.
Stam even spoke publicly about his interest in Aluko, 28, claiming, “If he was here, he would fit into our style of play”.
Fulham boss Slavisa Jokanovic obviously knows Aluko’s value.
Yet often the ex-Hull player is described as underrated due to his selfless work-rate and relatively modest goal return.
But London-born Nigeria ace Aluko hit back: “I played most of the season wide right.
“But for some reason I get judged a lot as a striker.
“My ten assists were the second highest in the league, so I’m not complaining about my season — I had a very good time.
“It’s about getting promoted. If you don’t, no one recognises you anyway. But if people say that I’m underrated, then I’ll take it!”
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