Manager Roy Hodgson has revealed chairman Mohamed Al Fayed played his part in the outcome of Fulham's massive victory against Birmingham.Skipper Brian McBride converted Jimmy Bullard's 52nd-minute free-kick to reward the Cottagers' endeavour on Saturday before Erik Nevland added a late second - the first time the Londoners have registered successive Premier League victories since September 2006.

"Mr Al Fayed talked to the players individually before the game, wishing them luck," Hodgson said. "I don't mind him coming into the changing room at all - it's his club.

"When I was at Inter Milan (president), Massimo Moratti would always come into the dressing room before and after the game. I thought that was good.

"It proves the chairman is 100% behind the players and that he identifies with them. Mr Al Fayed made a big effort before the Birmingham match and I'm sure it was appreciated."

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