Struggling McBride hit by virus

McBride has featured in all seven of Fulham's league games

Fulham striker Brian McBride has revealed his slow start to the season was caused by a virus.

The USA international, who has scored two goals in seven league games, blamed his form on World Cup fatigue but has since found the real reason.

"I've had something for a long time, we were trying to figure out what it was," the 34-year-old told the club website.

"It turned out I needed a root canal. So some bacteria had probably been going through my blood for some time."

McBride grabbed 10 goals for the Cottagers last season, earning him Fulham's Player of the Season award.

I've been feeling really good since Brian McBride on discovering the virus

But the former Everton forward has failed so far to reproduce that impressive form this campaign, despite featuring in all seven of Fulham's Premiership matches.

"I wasn't recovering and was feeling a bit fatigued. It came to a head last Thursday when I just couldn't sleep.

"It was good to get all that figured out. I've been feeling really good since."

Fulham are sat in mid-table with nine points after Monday night's 3-3 draw but McBride believes they should be in a stronger position.

"When you're in a position to get three points like we were against Watford and you don't, then you're always going to be disappointed," he said.

"We would definitely love to have a few more points on the board and that's going to be our job in the upcoming games."