Fulham must improve their defence in January — does former loanee Matt Targett fit the bill?

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Fulham have conceded an astounding 25 goals in their opening nine Premier League fixtures, by far the worst tally in the division and a worrying sign of defensive disarray.

The Whites must improve their backline in January, and former loanee Matt Targett would be the perfect addition to the squad.

The Southampton left back spent the second half of the 2017/18 campaign on loan at Craven Cottage, becoming an integral member of Fulham’s promotion-winning team.

Targett’s dependable and consistent performances at the left side of defence were a major catalyst for the Whites’ 23-match unbeaten run, as the defender’s presence allowed phenom Ryan Sessegnon to flourish in a more advanced role.

Fulham made a number of attempts to sign the Englishman permanently over the summer, yet the Saints rebuffed their offers and Mark Hughes claimed he had Targett in his first team plans.

Yet the 23-year-old has been largely neglected by Soutampton, limited to just two Premier League appearances totaling 72 minutes of playing time over the opening months of the season.

It is clear the Whites need better options in their back four, as in the absence of Joe Byran, Maxime Le Marchand was forced to start at left back — an obvious weak point that was exposed against Cardiff.

Matt Targett would do well to return to Craven Cottage for the opportunity to rescue Fulham’s sinking defence and gain a consistent starting place in the top flight.