Fulham have no intention of selling their best players in this transfer window - not least Tom Cairney.
That’s the emphatic view of Scott Malone, who scored the second goal in Saturday’s 2-0 win over Barnsley.
With speculation rife over the futures of Cairney, Ryan Sessegnon and other fringe players, Malone insists Whites will keep hold of their top talent - and if anything - will try to add to it.
“I’m sure the gaffer will say the same thing- we’re not selling in this window,” Malone added.
“We can’t afford to.
“The teams above us are putting bids in for players left, right and centre.
“We can’t afford to lose players. Hopefully we might even get a few in. It’s vital that we don’t lose anyone in this window.”
The 25 year-old came back into the Fulham side for the visit of the Tykes after a two-way battle with starlet Sessegnon for the left-back slot.
Malone’s 55th minute goal was set up by a fine cross-field ball from Chris Martin, also back in the fold after a prolonged absence.
Malone revealed that, despite Slavisa Jokanovic’s assertion the Chris Martin issue was solved ‘inside the dressing room’, the squad removed themselves to a respectful distance as the tug-of-war between Whites and parent club Derby rumbled on.
“The lads have kept out of it,” he said.
“It’s his situation to deal with and it’s been resolved. He’s back on the pitch now so that can only be good for us.
“Chris is vital for the team. He’s a focal point for our attacks.
“Hopefully he can keep himself in the right frame of mind, working hard and winning games for us.”
