As the oldest professional team in London, Fulham FC is enjoying one of their rare golden periods at the top table of English football - despite struggling, at times, to maintain their status in the Premier League, which they reached under Frenchman Jean Tigana in 2001.

Fulham FC, enjoying their renaissance thanks to the backing of owner Mohamed Al Fayed, count themselves lucky to still be in existence after falling as low as 17th in Division Three in 1996 and spending two seasons ground-sharing with QPR from 2002, while their famous Craven Cottage ground was refurbished.

The club was founded by members of St Andrew's Church, West Kensington, in 1879. Its name, Fulham St Andrew's Church Sunday School, was shortened to its present form in 1888 and Craven Cottage became its home in 1896, with Fulham achieving professional status two years later.

Fulham have won little major silverware just four divisional titles but can boast a long list of star names in their roll of honour, including legendary striker Johnny Haynes, who spent his whole League career at the club and played throughout their stay in the top flight in the 1960s.

After the 1960s Fulham FC made little impact in the League, although 1975 saw them reach the FA Cup final, where they lost out to West Ham United.

Ex-player and TV pundit Jimmy Hill was instrumental in blocking a merger plan with local rivals QPR in 1987.

Steady progress was made before the Al Fayed revolution took hold. With his money and with Kevin Keegan at the helm, Fulham FC won promotion to Division One in 1999 with a points tally of 101.

Keegan moved on to become England boss in early 1999 and two seasons later Tigana's team again amassing 101 points reached the Premier League as champions.

Seen as perennial strugglers, Fulham FC have been steady in the Premiership, enjoying a best finish of ninth in the 2003-04 season.

Fulham FC Football Team Fun Facts

1. Fulham's mascot Billy the Badger was sent of during a home game against Aston Villa on Sunday 3 February 2008, for breakdancing in the corner of the pitch.
2. Amoung many famous football players who have played for Fulham, the most well known being Bobby Robson, George Best, and Bobby Moore
3. Johnny Haynes has had the most appearances for Fulham FC at 658 Fulham games