Parker Seeks Coaching Inspiration from McLaren

Bernard Parker embarks on his coaching career at TS Galaxy following his retirement at the end of last season, crediting a significant portion of his achievements to Steve McClaren, the former assistant coach of Manchester United.

Parker had the chance to collaborate with McClaren at FC Twente, celebrating a league triumph in the 2009/10 season, narrowly edging out Ajax Amsterdam by just one point while surpassing PSV Eindhoven.

During that period, Luis Suarez was an emerging star at Ajax, finishing as the league’s top scorer with 35 goals, while Twente’s Bryan Ruiz claimed the second position with 24 goals.

This league victory was crucial for Parker, establishing a strong position for him in the South African national team, Bafana Bafana, as they prepared for the 2010 FIFA World Cup hosted in South Africa.

“Steve McClaren is one of the best coaches I’ve had the honor to work alongside,” Parker expressed.

“He has fostered numerous outstanding players throughout his coaching journey. McClaren possesses exceptional man management skills, akin to those of Alex Ferguson, understanding precisely how to engage with his players.”

Parker said McClaren motivated him to pursue further education in sports management, a suggestion he wholeheartedly accepted.

“Upon returning to South Africa to join Kaizer Chiefs after leaving FC Twente, he emphasized the importance of advancing my education in management,” Parker recounted.

“I sought sports management specifically for its promising prospects for my future.”

While at Twente, Parker wasn’t recognized for his goal-scoring prowess, managing only three goals in 31 appearances across all competitions.

Recently, McClaren parted ways with Manchester United after serving as the assistant coach for two seasons under Erik ten Haag, taking on head coaching responsibilities for the Jamaica national team in September.

Despite the 14-year hiatus, Parker continues to enjoy a strong bond with his former mentor.

“We still stay in touch,” Parker affirmed.

“I also gained a wealth of knowledge from his character; he had such a remarkable personality that significantly impacted the players.”

“I wish him all the best.”

McClaren’s guidance appears to be generating positive results for Parker as he takes on his inaugural coaching role at Galaxy. Currently, the DDC team sits in fifth place in the standings with 23 points from 12 matches, having suffered only one defeat – to the reigning champions, Stellenbosch – this season.