‘PERFECT FIT’ FOR PARKER

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Scott Parker speaks to the media in first Burnley press conference

2024-07-08T11:51:03.573Z

‘PERFECT FIT’ FOR PARKER

Scott Parker speaks to the media in first Burnley press conference

2024-07-08T11:51:03.573Z

Scott Parker speaks to the media in first Burnley press conference

Head Coach Scott Parker described joining the Clarets as the ‘perfect fit and right opportunity’ in his first press conference as Burnley boss on Monday morning.

The 43-year-old discussed a number of topics with the media, covering the aims of the 2024/25 season, his ‘time off’ from managing and his experiences from being in a similar position at Fulham and Bournemouth.

Parker said: “When the offer did arise, it was an opportunity with great history and a journey I wanted to be a part of.

“It was a long process, a real thorough process to get to this position but during that time I really got to know the ownership and a get a good feel for the Club.

“Looking on from afar, the journey Burnley have been on has been really exciting to watch, from Sean Dyche’s time through to Vincent (Kompany) most recently.

“I have absolutely no doubt that this is the right opportunity and perfect fit for me and I’m ready to get going now.”

Prior to joining Burnley last week, Parker had managerial spells with both Fulham and AFC Bournemouth in the Championship, where he got both promoted at the first time of asking.

Reflecting on his time and both promotions, the Head Coach wants to bring his knowledge and experiences to Turf Moor to help the Clarets achieve.

“I want to be on the cutting edge of it. I came out of football into Fulham and had to get them promoted in the first season and then it was the same aim at Bournemouth.

“Fulham had spent a bit of money the previous year after getting promoted, but then got relegated. The aim was to get straight back up at the first time and we achieved that.

“Obviously I experienced a relegation from the Premier League in my second year and looking back there’s things I would have done differently, but I’ve learnt from that.

“Bournemouth was slightly different, as they were in their second season in the Championship.

“We achieved automatic promotion at Bournemouth and that came through a game model, and I have to go on them beliefs.”

After his time with both Fulham and Bournemouth and a brief spell with Belgian side Club Brugge, Parker has spent over a year out of management but says it has helped him take time to reflect and recharge.

“When you’re in the heat of the battle and you’re on the treadmill, as a coach and a manager it was about just stepping off the treadmill and reflecting on it.

“I’ve taken some time to reflect and look at things that I’ve done well and not so well.

“There was offers (to go into other jobs) but it just wasn’t the right time for me, I wanted to recharge a little bit and go over things in my head.

“The main thing was taking some air, clearing everything and spending time with family to be ready for this position I’m in now.”

When questioned if instant promotion back to the Premier League was the target for Parker and his team, the former West Ham and Spurs midfielder explained: “That’s the aim, taking this football club back into the Premier League.

“Vinny (Kompany) did an incredible job during his time and has left good bones in that sense, there’s a very good talented squad here.

“One thing I can guarantee is there will be a team with big hearts, big souls and a team that represents the local people as well, because that’s what I stand for.

“I will put my absolute everything, heart and soul into getting this team and Club back to the Premier League, where I, the team, staff and fans believe we belong.”