In what has been an inconsistent season for Fulham so far, Slavisa Jokanovic's side sits just outside of the play-off places, well positioned for a late-season push for a top six finish.

Early season form, particularly at home, has been the main cause why Fulham are attempting to catch up with the rest of the play-off pack.

At this moment in time, Slavisa Jokanovic's side looks set to compete with Derby County, Norwich City and Sheffield Wednesday for the final play-off place.

As one of the most attractive teams to watch in the Sky Bet Championship, with the likes of Tom Cairney and Lucas Piazon, Fulham have shown that they boast a squad with some of the most gifted players in the second tier of English football.

However, as well as the rich talent, there have been some players who have performed at a level which they were not anticipated to do so at the beginning of the season.

FLW writer Elliott Wheat-Bowen has identified two Fulham players who have exceeded expectation this season.

Stefan Johansen

After falling out of favour at Scottish champions Celtic following the arrival of Brendan Rodgers, Fulham moved quickly to see off any interest in the Norwegian international.

The 26-year-old midfielder had featured regularly for Celtic under compatriot Ronny Deila, however, Johansen became a victim of the regime change in the summer.

After making the decision to move south of the border and join Championship side Fulham, the expectations surrounding Johansen were slightly lower than would've been expected as questions were raised if he would be able to replicate the success he had in the Scottish Premiership in the Championship.

The answer has been a resounding yes as Johansen has been at the heart of Fulham's success this season with five goals and six assists in just twenty league games.

Any questions about the Norwegian's ability or capabilities to perform in England has been rubbished as Johansen has exceeded the expectations this season, proving himself to be one of the best midfielders in the Championship this season.

Sone Aluko

After being released by Hull City at the end of last season, Championship side Fulham offered Sone Aluko a chance to play at Craven Cottage.

Despite playing for the side that went on to win the play-off final and earn promotion to the Premier League, Aluko was used sparingly by Steve Bruce with most of the Nigerian's appearance for Hull City coming off the bench.

There was very little expectation for the forward who had only scored three times and provided a single assist in the entirety of last season.

However, under the management of Slavisa Jokanovic, supported by the attractive playing style that Fulham have adopted, Aluko has been reinvigorated.

The 27-year-old forward has already surpassed his goal tally from last season with four goals and he has also impressively provided six assists in this Championship campaign so far.

Having joined Fulham on a free transfer after spending the season as a fringe player for Hull, there was very little expectation.

However, Aluko has greatly exceeded these expectations as he has proved to be one of the players of the season so far for Fulham.