Kit Symons had a word with Bryan Ruiz to check whether the Fulham midfielder was up for the fight before the 2-1 win over Reading.
The World Cup international is hoping for a move, loan or permanent in the transfer window - and his manager agreed it was worth a chat to see if the Costa Rican might be distracted.
The gaffer explained: “I had a chat with Bryan and found he wants to be part of the team. I spoke to him to make sure his mind was clear and he was pretty focused.
“I’ve always had a good relationship with Bryan and been forthright and honest. He’s always been the same. If anything arises from either side that makes it different, we’ll speak about and find the best solution.”
Ruiz had hoped a top-flight side in Europe would release him from the chore of the Championship in August, but sides like Werder Bremen, Olympiakos and Ajax were put off by the midfielder’s £4million price tag and £45,000-a-week wages.
If Fulham can’t broker a deal, the 29-year-old walks away for free in the summer at the end of this four-year contract.
