West Ham have appointed former midfielder Scott Parker to replace Nuno Espírito Santo. His return comes after the club retained Nuno through relegation but then lost its last two matches. Parker arrives with promotion experience at Fulham, Bournemouth and Burnley, and his first game in charge is away to Cardiff.
West Ham have appointed Scott Parker as head coach, bringing their former midfielder back to the English football club. He succeeds Nuno Espírito Santo, whose dismissal was announced the previous day. Parker’s appointment was confirmed on 4 November, with his first match in charge scheduled away to Cardiff. The new coach takes over after successive defeats for West Ham.[1], [2]
West Ham retained Nuno after relegation from the Premier League, England’s top division, last season, before deciding on the change. Parker has guided Fulham, Bournemouth and Burnley into that division as a coach. He had been without a club since leaving Burnley after their relegation last April. His coaching record therefore includes promotion campaigns at each of those clubs as well as his most recent top-flight departure.[1]
Parker played for West Ham between 2007 and 2011. Discussing his return, he described the appointment as a source of pride for himself and his family. He recalled that spell as some of the best football of his playing career and emphasised the warmth and respect he had felt from supporters. He said the possibility of returning immediately renewed his enthusiasm for the role.[1]
