Scott Parker to miss Boxing Day clash with Southampton as Fulham boss is forced to self-isolate after coronavirus scare

SCOTT PARKER will miss Fulham's Boxing Day clash with Southampton.

The Cottagers boss has tested negative for Covid-19.

But he is having to self-isolate after a member of his household returned a positive test for coronavirus.

Parker, 40, is therefore self-isolating in accordance with government guidelines.

Upon the news, he said: "I’m feeling well, a member of my household tested positive.

"Of course I’ll do all I can from home.

"I’ll be in constant dialogue and I’ll have a main line with the dugout.

"I’ll have a laptop up with different screens showing different angles.

"No doubt I’ve got great coaches and a great staff who will take the reins.”

Matt Wells and Stuart Gray will take charge from the Craven Cottage touchline.

Wells, 32, joined Fulham in March 2019, having previously coached the Under-18s at Spurs, where he first came across Parker.

Gray, on the other hand, possesses ample managerial experience.

The 60-year-old has held posts at Southampton, Northampton and Sheffield Wednesday - having also worked as caretaker boss at a number of other clubs.

Fulham will hope to grab a much-needed result against the in-form Saints at the Cottage, currently trailing 17th placed Brighton by two points after 14 matches.