Fulham star Joao Palhinha eyes toughest-tackler crown after topping stats leaderboard in Premier League

West Ham United v Fulham - Premier League - London Stadium
PA

Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha has set his sights on becoming the toughest tackler in the Premier League.

The Portuguese has made an impressive start to life in west London since joining from Sporting CP for £17million in the summer.

The 27-year-old has made more successful tackles than any other player in the top flight so far and his physical presence has been a key part of Fulham’s steady start.

And ahead of Saturday home game against Bournemouth, he said he is determined to stay top of the charts for the rest of the season.

“It’s my objective,” he said. “If I had a game where I didn’t do many tackles I wouldn’t feel very happy with myself. I want to do more.

”One of my objectives this season is to be in the top three, [but] if I’m the man with the most, I will be happy.

“It’s part of my game where I know I’m strong, but I want to improve other things in my game.”

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