Murphy overwhelmed by public's support for Fulham

DANNY MURPHY hopes Fulham will be inspired by the support of the nation when they meet Atletico Madrid in the Europa League final.

The Cottagers' fairytale march to tonight's showpiece at the Hamburg Arena has won near-universal approval in a rare show of unity from English fans.

Murphy believes the commitment his side have shown in defying all odds en route to the biggest match in their history explains their popularity.

"It's a fair point to say that this is probably the first time the whole of England want an English club to win in Europe," said the captain.

"The support we've received has been amazing. It's phenomenal really – Fulham are everybody's second favourite club at the moment. Maybe that's because of our unusual position this season in that we've overcome the odds and beaten so many good teams."

Bobby Zamora sat out training last night as he bids to beat an Achilles injury.