(Credit: Imago / Paul Phelan)

Ben Palmer

Mon 19 May 2025 19:28, UK

Arsenal star Declan Rice and Fulham’s Alex Iwobi reacted to a message from exit-bound Tom Cairney on social media.

At 34 years old and with the Cottagers fielding one of their highest-quality teams in years, Cairney has become a bit-part player under Tottenham target Marco Silva.

But with his goal from the bench, and his astonishing 86.5 accurate passes per 90 minutes [FotMob], the former Hull City man proved he still has the quality to compete at the highest level, amid rumours of a potential exit this summer.

In the summer of 2015, the Whites signed Cairney from Blackburn Rovers in a deal worth £3million [Sky Sports].

10 years later, the Scotland international has made 353 appearances for the club and on Sunday (18 May), scored only his second goal of the season in Fulham’s 3-2 win over rivals Brentford.

Tom Cairney sends ‘forever’ message to Fulham fans

After playing his part in the inspired comeback against Brentford, Cairney posted several photos on Instagram, captioned: “No matter what… Forever”.

The 34-year-old’s contract expires at the end of the season, with Fulham yet to announce any news of an extension for the captain.

Cairney has been linked with a move to Wrexham this summer [Standard], but told BBC Sport: “Nothing is sorted yet. Next week is my final game for Fulham.

“Hopefully it’s not. In football, sometimes things go to the last minute and hopefully it’s not my final time at Craven Cottage next weekend.”

Showing their support for the long-serving Fulham star, Rice and Iwobi both liked the post from the Cottagers’ captain.

Tom Cairney deserves new Fulham deal despite limited game time

Football Insider Verdict

Whilst passes per 90 may seem like a somewhat arbitrary stat, it highlights the important role Cairney has played for Fulham this season.

The Scotland international has often been introduced during the closing stages of games, and his calmness on the ball and accuracy with it has been vital for the way Silva wants to close out matches.

The Portuguese manager often likes to slow the tempo down to a crawl in order to see out games, and whilst Fulham have struggled in that regard, Cairney’s influence on the tempo of matches comes from his experience.

What’s more, the 34-year-old is an incredibly popular figure at the club and takes his leadership role seriously.

With emerging stars Josh King and Martial Godo becoming more involved, Cairney has taken both players under his wing, helping guide them in their journey.

For that reason alone, the Fulham captain should receive an extended contract as the Whites transition into becoming regular competitors for European football.