Hughton reveals Jol respect

Chris Hughton: Has spoken of respect for good friend Martin Jol ahead of clash

Norwich manager Chris Hughton will put his friendship to one side when he takes on Martin Jol's Fulham on Saturday.

Hughton owes a debt of gratitude to Jol after working alongside the Dutchman when he was in charge of Tottenham between 2004 and 2007.

Jol went on to manage Hamburg and Ajax while Hughton had spells at Newcastle and Birmingham but the two will now face each other in the Premier League when the Canaries travel to Craven Cottage.

And the Norwich boss' admiration for his opposite number will not detract from the desire to get his team off to a flying start and a first victory for his new club.

"There are almost two sides to it, because I am a really good friend of his, but also a rival manager," said Hughton.

"When it came out we were playing Fulham on the first day, of course it is something you have a laugh and a quick joke about.

"But just because he is a good friend of mine does not make any difference - we will want to win and do well in the game against them as much as we will in any other game.

Enjoyable

"I had three enjoyable years with Martin at Tottenham, working closely with him.

"He was very successful, having two fifth-place finishes.

"I have also learned a lot from him, so he has played a very good part in where I am in this moment.

"You pick up about what it is to be a good manager. Martin is on the training pitch every day, tactically he is very good.

"He is great with the players, has high demands off them and wants to play the game in an attractive manner.

"Martin is a winner and has been successful wherever he has been."