The Cottagers take on Barclays Premier League leaders Manchester United tomorrow in their 47th fixture of the season.

While runs in the Europa League and the FA Cup have undoubtedly helped boost the profile of the club, Hodgson's small squad has been stretched to the limit.

An injury crisis in February hit Hodgson's hopes of qualifying for Europe next season via the league and he is still without key players Andy Johnson and John Pantsil, who have been ruled out for the rest of the season with knee injuries.

The Cottagers' game at Old Trafford tomorrow will be the first of five matches in 13 days but Hodgson hopes his players do not succumb to fatigue as the season's end draws closer.

"We are stretched in terms of personnel," said Hodgson.

"This is a testing time for the durability of the side and it's important that we give our best for the matches that remain despite the tiredness.

"We have to give our best for the large number of matches that do remain because that's what our season requires of us and I'm sure the players will deliver what's required of them when I ask them to step up to the plate again."

Fulham go into the match having seen their nine-match unbeaten run ended by a 3-1 defeat to a classy Juventus side in the Europa League on Thursday.

United, conversely, are brimming with confidence having hammered AC Milan 4-0 on Wednesday to qualify for the last eight of the Champions League.

Fulham host Juve for their third round second leg just four days after playing United and then face Manchester City, Tottenham Hotspur and Hull before the end of the month.

Hodgson, whose side swept aside the Barclays Premier League leaders 3-0 in December, is sure his side will not let him down though, and has urged his players to go out and enjoy themselves.

"These are wonderful experiences to have," said the 62-year-old.

"The fact is that you'd like to be playing in a team that is far better than every opponent you meet but we know we are not that.

"That said, we are competitive on all levels. It's great to be in Turin and then to play Manchester United at Old Trafford and then go back to playing Juventus at home.

"I think this is a great reward for the players for all the hard work they've put in this season and they certainly won't let themselves down on Sunday."

Paul Konchesky could keep his place at left-back after making his return from a two-month lay-off with an ankle injury on Thursday.

He is adamant that centre-halves Brede Hangeland and Aaron Hughes can keep 30-goal striker Wayne Rooney under wraps.

"We've beaten United at home already, and we've always got a chance," said the left-back.

"Brede and Aaron are strong, quick, good in the air and read the game well, so they have great ability to stop him (Rooney)."