Mark Hughes has accused Premier League officials of having it in for his side after the Cottagers crashed to defeat at West Bromwich Albion on Saturday.

The 2-1 loss at the Hawthorns came on the back of a controversial home defeat to Tottenham a week ago.

And after seeing his side slump to 16th in the table, Hughes was in an angry mood.

He said: “It is exceptionally disappointing.

“We were hurt last week by the officials and we feel exactly the same this week.

“Both of West Brom’s goals were offside in our opinion and should not have stood.

“It is all a bit hard to take.

“All you want in this game is a level playing field and we really feel we are not getting that at the moment.

“People talk about first phase and second phase but to me that is where the law becomes an ass.”

Zoltan Gera gave Fulham an early lead, and the only other bright spot for Fulham was a return to action for Andy Johnson after nine months out injured.

Hughes added: “Having Andy back is a big positive.

“He has worked extremely hard to get back to fitness and he will be a very important player for us moving forward.

“All he needs now is games and we will make sure he gets them.”

Fulham’s next three games: Oct 30 Wigan (h), Nov 6 Aston Villa (h), 10 Chelsea (a)