FIVE-POINT PLAN

1 MANAGE MATCHES SMARTLY

Fulham didn’t lose a match in which they took the lead last season: going ahead in 24 games, they won 21 and drew the other three. They know how to defend a lead now, but the Premier League will be far tougher, and they’ll need to show more resolve than the last time they were here.

2 GET RID OF THE FLOPS

When Fulham were last promoted to the big time, they broke their transfer record twice with the signings of Jean Michael Seri (£ 25m) and Andre- Frank Zambo Anguissa (£ 30m). Neither player excelled in the Premier League – indeed, Anguissa started only 16 games – and after relegation they were sent out on loan to Galatasaray and Villarreal respectively. Getting both off their books permanently should be a priority for Fulham.

3 SHARE THE LOAD UPFRONT

Aleksandar Mitrovic bagged the Championship Golden Boot with 26 goals, but Fulham’s next- highest league scorer was central midfielder Tom Cairney with only eight. Over 40 per cent of the Cottagers’ goals came via the Serbian, and Parker will want Cavaleiro, Decordova- Reid and Knockaert to contribute more.

4 FIND MIKE A MATE

Michael Hector’s debut in January was followed by three clean sheets, and he made Fulham’s defence more solid in the season’s second half. Finding a partner for the man affectionately known as ‘ Virgil van Mike’ will be key to Parker’s side staying afloat, given how Tim Ream’s last venture into the top flight ended. Premier League experience wouldn’t go amiss.

5 AVOID LATE DEALS

One of Fulham’s biggest issues in 2018- 19 came from signing five players on transfer deadline day, leaving precious little time for them to adapt. The Cottagers don’t need to sign a dozen stars this summer, so getting the players they do need through the door as early as possible will give Parker time to work them into his squad. On this occasion, patience is not a virtue.