BASINGSTOKE-BORN Kit Symons has refused to rule out leading Fulham to a place in the Championship play-offs after being handed the manager's job on a permanent basis.

The 43-year-old, who played his youth football at Overton United, was appointed as the Craven Cottage side's manager last night following a successful spell as caretaker.

Symons took his first press conference as permanent manager this afternoon and was unable to hide his delight at getting the top job.

“It’s got a great ring to it and just hearing those words is fantastic,” he said. “It’s something I’ve dreamed about for a long time and now it’s a reality.

"I’m under no illusions, the hard work really starts now but I can’t wait and I’m really looking forward to it.

“It’s something I’ve thought about for a long time. I thought I went about my business in the right way to eventually achieve this position. 

"I’ve done my apprenticeship if you like and I’ve been ready for a little while now. I intend to take this opportunity fully.

“I had a meeting with the chairman on Wednesday. It was a very pleasant meeting, which I thoroughly enjoyed. We had an excellent chat and I was told I’d be taking over on a full-time basis which was the news I’d been hoping for.

“I’ve loved every minute of the caretaker role. I’ve done plenty of other roles in football as well so I feel I’m well placed to take over in this capacity.

“Without naming names, I know there were some fantastic candidates on the list so for the chairman to then pick me is a fantastic feeling and it does make me feel special.

Asked if he felt a play-off spot was a realistic aim for his side this term, Symons stated: “We’ve started our season seven games late if you like, only having the one point.

"It would be a big ask but we intend to improve every single week and it’s certainly not beyond the realms by any stretch. We’ll set our standards and our targets very, very high.”

Then-Under-21 boss Symons took over as caretaker boss with Fulham bottom of the table, having taken just one point from their first seven league games.

Since then the Whites have moved up the table and currently sit outside the drop zone in 20th after four wins from their last six league fixtures.

“I just do things in my own way,” explained Kit. “The environment is a huge thing and it’s about making sure it’s a happy and hard-working one where players can learn and improve.

"They’re easy words to say but to actually go and do it is another thing altogether. I’ve got some fantastic people around me but this is the first step now and we need to up our levels again.”