Parker outlines promotion ambition as West Ham return is confirmed
Scott Parker says he is determined to lead West Ham United back to the Premier League after returning to the club as head coach.
The former Hammers midfielder is back in east London more than 15 years after ending a four-year spell as a player, during which he made 129 appearances and won the club’s Hammer of the Year award three times.
Parker has since built a strong managerial record in the Championship, winning promotion with Fulham, Bournemouth and Burnley, and believes that experience can help West Ham achieve their aim this season.
“I feel so honoured to be the person who’s been given the opportunity to try and lead this Club back to the Premier League,” Parker said after being confirmed as Nuno Espirito Santo’s replacement.
“I’m very confident. I’ve been in this division three times, and I’ve got out of this division three times.
“This is a tough division, there’s absolutely no denying that, and there isn’t one player on a bit of paper that gets you out of this division.
“It’s going to be a challenge, but I’m going to use every ounce of my experience and knowledge from my three previous promotions, to help us achieve our goal.”
Parker also spoke of his emotional connection with West Ham and admitted the opportunity to return was difficult to turn down.
“I have a lot of fond memories of my time here as a player – it was probably where I played the best football of my career – and for many reasons, I had a really strong affiliation with the Club,” he said.
“There was a warmth there, a love and a feeling I probably didn’t have elsewhere.”
Parker also outlined what he expects from his players, insisting commitment will be non-negotiable.
“When every single one of my players crosses the white line they understand the commitment expected of them, and that we can never fall short of that,” he said.
“You can talk about different playing styles, but you have to understand that it’s a process and there will be bumps along the way.
“But the one thing that can’t change is the value someone holds, and the commitment they’re willing to put in.”
