JOHN Pantsil is convinced Fulham will emulate their success last season even though a more challenging campaign beckons.

The club defied all expectations to clinch seventh in the Barclays Premier League, their best top flight finish, and qualify for Europe.

Fears have grown that they will struggle to cope with the extra workload generated by their involvement in the Europa League but Pantsil believes they are well positioned to cope.

"We're not a surprise package any more so we know there is more pressure on us this season," he said.

"The players know how tough it's going to be this season because last year we did so well.

"But we've said to ourselves that we want to repeat the same performance. We can do it but it's not going to be easy.

"We all need to pull together and we are determined to do it by repeating the same spirit."

Pantsil has been a permanent fixture in Fulham's line-up since his arrival from Upton Park last summer.

Two years of treading water at West Ham came to an end when Hodgson took the Ghana defender to Craven Cottage where his enthusiasm and commitment have been well received.

He has started all four Premier league matches this season - he missed only one last term - and was the only first team regular to play in last night's creditable 1-1 draw with CSKA Sofia.

The 28-year-old will continue at right-back for Sunday's clash with Wolves and is happy with the workload given to him by manager Roy Hodgson.

"We could end up playing a lot of games this season but I believe that I can be involved in most of them," he said.

"At Fulham we train in a sensible way and we've got a good manager who can change us around.

"He has picked a second team, those who can play in Europe and those who can play in the Premier League.

"He's given each and every one of us a lot of strength so that we can play in a lot of games so I will abide by what he tells us.

"I respect the decisions the manager makes, he knows what's best for the players.

"We've not got a big squad, so I wasn't worried when I was picked to play against CSKA.

"I always want to play. I'm at Fulham to work and I don't play around with my job.

"I always want to be part of a team that will make history for the club. I love playing European games so I'm very glad I'm here."