Fulham's Jokanovic praises Mitrovic and downplays key changes

Slavisa Jokanovic did not want any acclaim for his half-time changes which earned Fulham a 1-1 draw against his former club Watford.

After a first half in which the high-flying Hornets dominated in every aspect at Craven Cottage following Andre Gray’s opener on 90 seconds, Jokanovic took action.

Summer signing Alfie Mawson and captain Kevin McDonald were hooked at the break with Denis Odoi and Floyd Ayite coming in.

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After a much improved, battling second-half performance Aleksandar Mitrovic struck in the 78th minute and could have won it when his injury-time header clattered the bar.

Jokanovic, however, did not want any praise for his changes.

“I did my job. I tried to support the team,” the Serbian insisted. “I make two changes; if I'd had the opportunity I would have made four, I would do it. It's not a question about one player or another player, no player was at a good enough level in the first 45 minutes.

“At the end, I tried to make some kind of support for my team and move a little bit different. Credit for the team and they showed different level in the second 45 minutes and changed the story.

“We push and scored the goal and we could finish with three points, if we are a little bit more lucky at the end of the game. I believe the result was fair but this kind of sloppy start you can pay (a) really, really expensive (price).”

On the performance of his compatriot Mitrovic, Jokanovic added: “He’s fighting strong. We did so many things for him today - from two chances he scored one.

“He’ll want to win the game but we’ll try and do that at the next opportunity.”

Up next for Jokanovic and Fulham is a trip across the capital to face Millwall in the EFL Cup before they head to Everton in the Premier League.