Scott Parker says Fulham plan to bolster both their defensive and midfield departments before the summer transfer window shuts.
Speaking after Alfie Mawson and Stefan Johansen each sustained an injury in the Whites’ final pre-season game against West Ham, and with the likes of Calum Chambers, Jean-Michaël Seri, André-Frank Zambo Anguissa departing, Parker conceded that there is still a shortage of numbers in those ranks.
But the former Fulham captain is confident that the club’s ownership can recruit the type of calibre akin to the signings of Ivan Cavaleiro and Anthony Knockaert across the whole pitch.
“I think that I would probably need some more in that area [defence], and probably in midfield as well, where we’re a little bit thin,” the Whites boss said.
“We all realise that this game is a team sport and you need to rely on your squad, so we certainly need to add a bit more in those areas. I’m sure we will over the coming 10 days.
“I feel like we’ve done some good business in the front half of the pitch.”
Loanees Cavaleiro and Knockaert both started against the Hammers either side of Aleksandar Mitrović, who himself signed contract extension earlier this month, and Parker anticipates his new offensive weapons to start firing once fully integrated.
He added: “They’re very, very good players. I still think they’re a little bit short of where we need them to be, in terms of minutes and training days. They’ve come in late to the football club.
“But, having said that, I’m looking forward to them being a massive part of our squad this year. They’re two signings that you know what you’re going to get from. We’re expecting a big year from them.”
Fulham kick off their Championship season on Saturday at Barnsley, seeking a return to the top flight at the first time of asking.
“We’ve had some tough fixtures in a tough pre-season — we wanted it to be that way and planned it that way,” Parker said.
“I’m looking forward to a massive season. We’ve put a lot of work into this team and these players over the course of six weeks. We’re in a good place. I feel like we’re ready.”
Click here to subscribe to West London Sport’s YouTube channel