Hange management is the key for Fulham

But Hangeland, the 6ft 5ins Norway international bought by Hodgson from FC Copenhagen for £2.5 million last January, has inevitably attracted interest from a number of clubs including Arsenal, Spurs and Liverpool.

Hodgson concedes he may struggle to hang on to the 27-year-old and Schwarzer said: "It would be a blow to lose him. Brede is proving to be a top-class player and a top professional, he is one of the last to leave the training ground every day and he looks after himself very well. All of our back line have played well. People tend to forget about Hughes, who has been outstanding, as have Pantsil and Konchesky.

"But certain individuals are always going to be singled out and Brede is very composed on the ball, he is strong in one-on-one situations and his aerial dominance is superb."

Schwarzer has won praise from Hodgson, who said: "Mark's been a remarkable signing in terms of his ability, presence and enthusiasm."

The 36-year-old Australian rejected other offers, including a lucrative one from Italian side Fiorentina, to join Fulham on a free in May following 11 seasons at Middlesbrough.

He said: "Moving to Fulham was a great way to refresh, to give myself an extra boost, to really get that extra spring in my step and concentrate on my goal of qualifying for the World Cup.

"Not for one moment have I regretted my decision."