Scott Parker will be used sparingly when he finally returns to the Fulham first team, says his boss.
In the same way Alejandro Faurlin at neighbours QPR is being wrapped in cotton wool after three serious ligament injuries, the former England player will see out his contract at the Cottage by coming in and out of the team.
Parker, 35 on Tuesday week, has struggled to shake off ankle concerns dating back to April, and recently needed an injection to speed the healing process.
The club’s biggest wage earner at close to £75k-a-week found that not even the use of a state-of-the-art weight bearing treadmill got him over the line.
He played 55 minutes in the 3-0 U21 defeat at Derby on Monday night, but it’s touch and go whether he plays any part at Charlton on Sunday where he started his career in 1997.
Manager Kit Symons explained: “I’m very conscious of where Scotty is in his career (see gallery), his fitness levels and his age - there’s no getting away from it.
“I’ve had several lengthy discussions with Scot about this, and we’ll work on his own programme and what’s right for him.
“When he’s fit and available he’s a very influential player, but we need to be realistic in acknowledging he won’t play every game in what is a tough Championship season.”
