Ray Wilkins named Fulham assistant head coach

Ray Wilkins

Fulham have appointed former manager Ray Wilkins as assistant head coach to Rene Meulensteen at Craven Cottage.

Wilkins, 57, is the second appointment to the club's backroom staff over the festive period after Alan Curbishley was named technical director.

Meulensteen believes Wilkins can help the Cottagers in their battle to avoid relegation from the Premier League.

"I know that Ray's experience and his knowledge of the game will be a vital component," Meulensteen said.

"Retaining our status of being a Premier League club next season is vitally important to our long-term plans.

"I am delighted that the chairman and the chief executive have, again, backed my desire for further experience and support within the backroom staff."

Wilkins was previously in charge of Fulham more than 15 years ago, guiding them to the Second Division play-offs in the 1997-98 season, but he was sacked before they began following a poor run of results.

After leaving Craven Cottage, Wilkins took up coaching roles at Chelsea, Watford and Millwall.

His last coaching job ended in November 2010 when he left his position as Chelsea assistant manager.

Fulham are in the relegation places on goal difference after their 6-0 defeat at Hull City.