Parker wants Fulham stars to 'step up'

Scott Parker has called for Fulham’s attacking players to “step up” in the absence of Aleksandar Mitrovic.

With their star striker sitting out the first match of three-game ban, Fulham came from behind to win 2-1 at QPR in the west London derby.

And manager Parker is looking for a big effort from his side in their remaining two games without Mitrovic as the Whites battle for promotion.

He said: “There’s no hiding from the fact that we haven’t got another recognised forward in our squad.

Cyrus Christie scored Fulham's winner.

“During these moments, as disappointed as we are that we lose him, it’s an opportunity for other players to come to the fore and we are going to need them attacking players in our team.

“They need to step up. The Anthony Knockaerts, the Ivan Cavaleiros, the Bobby Reids and the Tom Cairneys in attacking positions are going to have to step up.”

After recent defeats against promotion rivals Leeds and Brentford, a win was crucial for Parker’s side as they compete for a return to the top flight.

“The result was the be-all and-all,” Parker admitted.

“After two losses it was key that we got the result.”