Parker ‘proud’ of Fulham players as Lookman’s goal earns crucial points

FULHAM manager Scott Parker has expressed his pride in his players following their 1-0 win over Sheffield United at Craven Cottage on Saturday night.

Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman scored in the second half to give the Premier League relegation battlers their second straight win, after their impressive 2-0 away victory over Everton.

“I’m very proud of the team,” Parker said at his post-match press conference. “It’s been a tough week in terms of the games we’ve had to play, the travelling we’ve had to do.

“I think we all understood tonight what this game was about.

“The message to the team before the game was to focus on us, let’s not listen to the noise that’s been created around this game.

“Throughout this year there’s been one soul focus and that is us, that’s been my constant message.”

Fulham are still in relegation waters in 18th place, but their recent form has taken them to within touching distance of safety. 

Parker’s side are three points behind 17th placed Newcastle United and four points behind Brighton in 16th.

The former Chelsea midfielder believes in the talent of players like Lookman, Tosin Adarabioyo, Ruben Loftus-Cheek and others to continue lifting the team.

“I know with that, us showing our quality and playing with a freedom we’ll get results, and I think that was proven tonight,” he added.

“This group of players are honest, want to learn, want to get better, understand the challenges of this league, what it brings sometimes and what you need in these moments.

“This team has constant belief, they’re a confident team and that’s the way we need to continue.”

Lookman has been one of Fulham’s best players since joining them on loan from RB Leipzig at the beginning of the season.

He has scored four goals and contributed three assists in the Premier League, meaning he has been directly involved in more league goals than any Fulham player this season.