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The Royals skipper, who was a virtually ever-present in last years promotion winning campaign, insists that he is capable of playing Division One football and is ready to for action if called upon.
Parkinson has made just seven appearances for the Reading this season, six of them from the subs bench.
In preparation for the day the 34-year-old hangs up his boots he managed the reserve side for yesterday's 1-1 friendly draw with Portsmouth, an experience he thoroughly enjoyed.
"I'm seeing how it goes and playing it by ear. When you get to 34-35 in football you have to look at what to do next and I would love to stay here at Reading as a coach. I really enjoyed taking the team to Portsmouth," said Parkinson, speaking to the Evening Post.
"I can still do a playing job if asked. I played most of the games last year and you don't suddenly become a bad player over the summer.
"I know it's a higher division but I'm confident I could do myself and the team justice. I have kept myself fit if needed."
Despite many pundits predicting a season of struggle the Royals have defied the odds and done well so far in their first Division One campaign for five years.
Parkinson added: "In Division One you do play against better quality players who are stronger, but I don't think there is a massive difference.
"We are doing well, especially with the start we had. You look at Brighton and they have lost seven on the bounce and they were champions.
"To be honest I look at the table and am a bit disappointed because we could be doing even better. The Wimbledon game was disappointing for us as I felt we should have won and Coventry as well. From what I have seen I don't think there is too much to worry us."
