Stoke City manager Mark Hughes has said that he is puzzled by Fulham's home form as he prepares himself for a return to Craven Cottage this afternoon.

The Whites are yet to win in front of their home fans in three games this season, which have brought in just one point for Martin Jol's men.

"I don't really know why they haven't been able to knock results out at home," the Welshman, who walked away from the Whites after 11 months in charge in June 2011, told reporters.

"Craven Cottage is one of the great football grounds of the Premier League, it's got its own unique atmosphere and that has helped Fulham in the past.

"At the beginning of any season there are a lot of disruptions and the league hasn't really settled down yet - with international breaks and the transfer window. Fulham are one of many teams that will think things will settle for them and they can continue to progress and move forward."

The West Londoners currently sit 18th in the league with one win, a draw and four defeats so far.

Some reports have suggested that Jol's fate could be decided by the outcome of this afternoon's match.