Scott Parker tips Tosin Adarabioyo to push for England callup

Fulham manager Scott Parker believes former Manchester City player Tosin Adarabioyo can aim for the England squad as he prepares to face his former club.

Adarabioyo joined the Citizens aged five, but found senior appearances limited under Pep Guardiola during his time there, and spent two seasons on loan in the Championship with West Brom and Blackburn.

Parker then signed Adarabioyo in the summer transfer window, and has previously admitted he had an eye on the 23-year-old defender from his time with the Tottenham under-23s.

“That (England national team) can be a goal for Tosin,” Parker said when asked about his future.

“I still think there are elements where he can improve for sure. I see that every day.”

City are arguably closing in on the title and their 21-game winning streak was only brought to an end by derby rivals Manchester United at the weekend, while Fulham currently sit in the relegation zone, but level on points with Brighton in 17th place and just one behind Newcastle.

Adarabioyo has been a crucial part of Fulham’s defensive improvements this season, after they conceded 10 goals in their opening three matches, before the 23-year-old’s arrival in October.

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Alongside stand-in captain and loanee Joachim Andersen, Adarabioyo has become a mainstay of the Fulham defence, which has shipped just two goals in their last eight matches and Parker believes he can see the City influence in the 23-year-old.

Adarabioyo is eligible to play for England and Nigeria. He has however  repeatedly turned down Nigeria in favour of England. He has represented England at the under-19 level