If Terry Phelan is stressed, imagine how Barry Hayles has felt during his 2 years at Craven Cottage.
The £2million hit man from Bristol Rovers, had a shaky start to his Fulham career as he struggled to come to terms with his price tag, and a different style of football.
A host of missed chances in his early games, and a perceived lack of work rate did little to endear himself to a notoriously difficult to please crowd.
A record of 8 goals in 30 league games in his first season was a poor return for the most expensive striker in Division 2. Aside from his goals record however, there had been some encouraging signs.
A late F.A cup goal secured victory against Southampton, and in the same competition Hayles gave the great Jip Jaap Stam a tough test at Old Trafford.
During Paul Bracewell's brief reign it was clear from the outset that Hayles did not figure highly in his plans. Disciplinary problems coupled with Bracewell's lack of faith restricted him to just 21 League starts which yielded just 5 goals.
Again it took cup competions and Premiership opposition to bring the best out of Hayles. A goal against Spurs in a great Worthington cup victory again showed that Barry could do damage to top flight sides.
His 4th round F.A Cup performance against Wimbledon was the best individual display I have seen from a Fulham player.
Jean Tigana must have seen the video of that match, as Hayles was given a chance to stake his claim under the new regime. When George Weah opted for Manchester City instead of Fulham it gave Barry one last chance to establish himself in the first team.
Some players may have been signed off with stress after being left on the bench for the opening day of the season, but Hayles showed an excellent attitude coming on to score against Crewe. He hasn't looked back since, with his brace against Gillingham taking his tally to 7 in 8 games.
Should Fulham make it to the Premiership next season, speculation will undoubtedly revolve around who will replace Hayles. But does Barry have what it takes to make the grade in the Premiership?
A late entrant into the professional game, Hayles seems to have benefited the most from Tigana's new coaching methods.
His strength and pace have never been in question, but low confidence and inconsistency have hampered his Fulham career.
This season his work rate and link up play have improved beyond recognition. Despite all the midfield creativity Fulham possess, it will be Hayles with the greatest number of assists in this campaign.
If Hayles can stay injury free and out of trouble, he will surely top the 20 goal mark this season. If that is enough to fire Fulham to the Premiership, he would definitely deserve his chance in the top flight.
One thing is for sure, if Ade Akinbiyi is worth £5million and a place in the Premiership, then Barry Hayles definitely has what it takes to make the grade.
Source www.the-referees-a.com