Fulham struck three times in the second half as they came from behind to record only their second away win of the season.

Stephen Ireland put City ahead against the run of play, but two Clint Dempsey goals either side of a Dickson Etuhu effort turned the Barclays Premier League match around.

Hodgson told Sky Sports 1: "Coming to a very difficult place, the way we went about our business today was very good. We were a bit unlucky to go in a goal down but the boys shook that off.

"Belief is key. It's too easy to start thinking things are not going your way. You have to fight those things, keep doing what you're doing."

Fulham are up to eighth place in the Barclays Premier League, but Hodgson is not looking at Europa League qualification.

He added: "The important thing for us is to keep up the good work and see where the points get us."

City boss Mark Hughes felt his side were tired after their UEFA Cup defeat in Hamburg last Thursday.

"Fulham had the advantage of a clear week," Hughes said.

"We were feeling the effects of the game in midweek. Tired minds sometimes make mistakes on the field."