Scott Parker tackled a range of topics in Thursday’s press conference ahead of our Sky Bet Championship opener against Barnsley.
Pre-season…
I’ve enjoyed it. It’s been six weeks of working with the team, getting some ideas across, working the players pretty hard for what’s going to be a tough year. There’s been some good quality work gone in which has been pleasing. The players are looking forward to what’s going to be a massive campaign.
New contracts for Tom Cairney and Aleksandar Mitrović…
I think it was vitally important. We recognised that at the back end of last season, and fair play to the hierarchy at the football club for convincing these players to stay and tying them down on long contracts. These players are going to be pivotal for us this year, in their knowledge of the league, their quality of course as players, but first and foremost their knowledge of the league and how this division works, because it’s relentless at times.
Alfie Mawson and Stefan Johansen being substituted against West Ham…
Both players have come through the week. Alfie Mawson was cautionary and Stefan got a knock late on, but both players have come through this week okay.
Transfers…
I think we understand that we’d like to bring some more players in as we are light in certain areas. We’ve done some fantastic business in [Ivan] Cavaleiro and [Anthony] Knockaert – sensible and very, very good business, but at the same time I think if you’re a Fulham fan or you’re sitting in my position, or even ownership’s position, we all realise that there are certain areas of this team that need strengthening, just to add a little bit of depth. I know everyone here at the club is trying to make that happen.
Barnsley…
For whoever gets picked, regardless of who the first game had been, there’s an opportunity to make a statement. That’s my message playing against a team that’s used to winning. They got promoted last year, they’re familiar with winning football matches. It’s going to be tough, I’m under no illusions and the players will be under no illusions. On Saturday it’s going to be a real, real battle. We understand that and hopefully we’ll come out on top.