After their relegation back to the second tier, Fulham could have done without the saga which involved Scott Parker eventually making the switch to Championship rivals Bournemouth.

A reduced pre-season schedule and more outgoings than arrivals have left Marco Silva with much work ahead as he bids to get the West Londoners off to the perfect start.

Nevertheless, the Portuguese will be optimistic about the future having already secured the signings of former Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper Paulo Gazzaniga and Liverpool midfielder Harry Wilson.

More players will eventually come through the door, but the duo each bring quality and experience to a squad which has lost several high-profile loan players.

While Silva and his squad will fancy their chances in their opening triple-header, they cannot underestimate a much-changed Middlesbrough side.

Warnock has reacted to losing a number of senior players by strengthening in several positions, the most notable signing being that of Argentine midfielder Martin Payero.

The fact that Boro were prepared to pay a substantial fee for the 22-year-old, who has just featured at the Olympics, shows the club’s ambition to get back into the top flight.

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The arrival of Matt Crooks from Rotherham United could also make a difference, although Boro will not challenge for the top six unless they find a regular goalscorer.

On paper, Middlesbrough have one of the more favourable starts to the season, but they may relish the opportunity to play as underdogs on Sunday