In the mould of ex-Boro workhorse Robbie Mustoe, Parlour is a box-to-box player who gives 110% and can graft with the best of them, but he also has that bit of flair that can be rewarded with a goal or two.
Romford born Parlour still has the pace to beat his man and would be suited to playing wide on the right-hand side of midfield, in place of the seemingly reluctant Gaizka Mendietta. This would allow Mendietta to move inside where he may be able to provide useful ammunition for Messer’s Viduka and Hasselbaink.
The signing of Bolo Zenden next week could be the icing on the cake ahead of what promises to be a very exciting season.