Zuberbuhler faces stiff competition for the first team jersey at Craven Cottage from Mark Schwarzer, Antti Niemi and up-and-coming David Stockdale.

The 37-year-old former Grasshoppers and Basle player failed to impress in a spell at West Brom two years ago.

He was sent packing after just eight months and 15 league games of a two-year contract and went back home to join Neuchatel Xamax - once managed by Hodgson.

However, Zuberbuhler is now trying to convince English fans again after signing a one-year deal at Craven Cottage.

He retired from international football having won his 51st cap in Switzerland's final group match of the Euro 2008 championship against Portugal.

He said: "I know the situation here with the goalkeepers.

"I've known Mark Schwarzer for a long time and played against him in the past. I know he's the number one, but I'm here to give my best."

Meanwhile, Fulham are finally hopeful of completing the deal to sign Everton's England striker Andrew Johnson within the next 24 hours following renegotiation over the player's apparent £10.5million value.

A medical scan reportedly showed up worries over an old knee injury and Fulham could push through a deal based on appearances, following an initial down-payment.

That would give Everton manager David Moyes the funds to mount a bid for Sporting Lisbon's Portugal midfielder Joao Moutinho, whom Goodison Park chairman Bill Kenwright has confirmed as a prime target.