Scott Parker to miss Fulham vs Southampton Boxing Day clash after positive Covid test within household

Matt Wells and Stuart Gray to lead side in Parker’s absence with hope that he can return for the London derby at Spurs on 30 December

Fulham manager Scott Parker will miss the Boxing Day Premier League clash with Southampton (AP)

Scott Parker will miss Fulham’s Boxing Day Premier League clash with Southampton after a member of his household tested positive for Covid-19.

The Fulham manager has returned a negative test since learning of the positive case among his household, but in line with government guidance he will have to remain in self-isolation for 10 days before being required to return a second negative test to enable him access to the club’s training ground.

In Parker’s absence, assistant coaches Matt Wells and Stuart Gray will lead the side in the hunt for a victory that could move them out of the relegation zone.

A Fulham statement confirmed: “The club can confirm that Scott Parker will not be in the dugout for our home fixture against Southampton on Boxing Day.

“Following a member of his household testing positive for Covid-19, and despite returning a negative result, Scott has been self-isolating this week in accordance with the guidance.

“Matt Wells and Stuart Gray will take charge of the team on Saturday.

“Subject to returning a further negative result, Scott Parker will return to the dugout for our away fixture against Tottenham Hotspur on 30 December.”

Parker will continue to fulfil his media commitments on Christmas Eve with a virtual press conference, but will have to communicate with his backroom staff from his home ahead of their Boxing Day encounter. However, the four-day gap to next Wednesday’s London derby with Spurs should allow Parker enough time to complete his isolation period and return to the dug-out, providing he does not test positive for coronavirus himself ahead of the match.