Scott Parker Fulham
Burnley FC’s decision to part ways with manager Scott Parker has raised eyebrows, particularly from former player Glen Little. Despite a challenging record, Little expressed surprise at the club’s choice to dismiss Parker, who boasts a strong Championship track record. The decision comes amid fan unrest and a prolonged period of poor form, prompting speculation about the club’s next managerial move.
Glen Little said: “I find it a bit strange though, I have to admit. You know, you’re in the Championship and two seasons ago, when they went down, there would have been lots and lots of applicants and they chose Scott Parker, because they thought he was the best person to get us up. Two years down the line, what’s changed? Not only has he done it with Fulham and Bournemouth, but you’ve actually seen him do it first hand at your own club, with 100 points and only lost two games.”
Glen Little continued: “When the supporters start getting on the manager’s back and maybe there’s a few empty seats knocking about, I think they’ve sort of reacted to the fanbase. I feel early on when there was talk about sacking him, maybe 80% were still behind him? But as the months went by and he won one in 25, that’s probably changed and it’s now gone the other way. It’s probably 80 to 20 now or probably a bit more than that.”
Glen Little added: “Once the supporters start talking, it’s like they’ve got their way and then that’s it. But it just seems a bit strange that you’re going to now employ someone who hasn’t got anywhere near the record that Scott Parker’s got in the Championship. But when it gets nasty like it has, I think that’s why they’ve made the decision.”
Little also reflected on the differences between Parker’s tenure and that of his predecessor, Vincent Kompany. While acknowledging the challenges faced by Parker, Little noted that the team’s current form has been disappointing, with only one win in the last 25 matches. He suggested that the club’s decision might have been influenced by external pressures rather than a lack of faith in Parker’s abilities.
Looking ahead, Little speculated on potential candidates for the managerial position. He mentioned the possibility of appointing someone with Championship experience, such as Liam Rosenior, or considering high-profile names like Steven Gerrard and Michael Carrick. Little also noted the potential for a foreign manager with experience in English football, such as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer or Ruud van Nistelrooy.
Despite the uncertainty, Little emphasized the importance of selecting a manager who can replicate Parker’s success in the Championship. As Burnley navigates this transitional period, the club’s next move will be crucial in determining their future trajectory.
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