Tom Cairney backs Scott Parker for permanent Fulham manager role

Fulham midfielder Tom Cairney says he would like to see Scott Parker handed the manager's job on a permanent basis.

Parker was named as Fulham's caretaker boss this week following the sacking of Claudio Ranieri.

The 38-year-old suffered a 2-1 defeat in the first game of his managerial career against Chelsea on Sunday but Cairney says he should still be given the chance in a long-term role.

"I think so, yeah. I can't speak on behalf of everyone but he's so highly regarded at this club. I'd like to see that and him given a chance," he told Sky Sports News.

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"It's good for young English or British managers. You see the likes of Lampard and Terry already, I think he (Parker) is in that bracket.

"It's a massive opportunity being a Premier League manager at this stage in his career but he's just taken it in his stride."

Cairney also revealed how Parker had taken the shackles off the Fulham players and given them a clear idea of how he wants them to play.

"He's been a top player and he just knows the game very well," he added.

"He'll probably say himself that he's got a lot to learn but the way he has been this week has been outstanding - you can tell from on the pitch today.

"He's just given us a clear idea. 'This is what I want in possession, this is what I want out of possession'. I think he took the shackles off a bit.

"He gave players license to express themselves and to enjoy it. We've worked hard for two or three years to play the likes of Chelsea in our stadium - he reminded us of that. We went out and did that today."

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