It’s full speed ahead for fit Parker

Josh Parker

JOSH Parker should hit his straps just in time for the FA Cup third-round tie at Liverpool.

The flying winger — or emergency full-back, a role he has operated in perfectly effectively over the past two games — reckons he has yet to hit top speed following a comeback from an impact fracture of a knee.

But before the cup tie, he is focusing on helping Athletic collect some vital points in npower League One.

"I am not up to full fitness but when I am, I will be up to full pace — just in time for the Liverpool game," said the former QPR player, signed by Paul Dickov in the summer following a successful trial.

"It is hard for us not to be excited about Liverpool, as it is the biggest game of some players' careers.

"But we have to rectify what happened against Hartlepool and come good for the manager, because we know where we should be in the league and where we are now does not reflect that."

Notts County, five places higher than Athletic in ninth, have a boss with whom Parker is familiar.

"Their manager (Martin Allen) was at QPR coaching a few times so I know him from back then.

"I spoke to him on a couple of occasions since and they wanted me to go there at one time.

"But I don't like to focus too much on the opposition, as I think it leads to worrying about other players and what they can do."