Fulham have confirmed Scott Parker as their permanent manager as they prepare for life back in the Championship.
The former England midfielder took charge of the Craven Cottage club as caretaker manager following the sacking of Claudio Ranieri in February.
But the 38-year-old wasn't able to keep Fulham in the Premier League with their relegation confirmed following a 4-1 defeat at Watford on April 2.
His appointment on a two-year contract comes after Fulham once again failed to entice former Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger to the job.
They initially approached Wenger back in November following the sacking of Slavisa Jokanovic, appointing Ranieri instead.
And undeterred by that knock back, the club went for the Frenchman once again this month.
Speaking at his press conference ahead of Sunday's final match of the season against Newcastle, Parker said: 'It's a two-year contract and I'm very excited about the challenge. I know how things work, the daily dynamics of team, and where improvements need to be made.
'Now, the challenge lies with me to move things forward. Ultimately, success comes from a culture and a desire - that needs to be our foundation. We'll drive a culture here that our fans will recognise.
'I've got twenty years of playing experience and twenty years of being in changing rooms. I want to use that experience to help the Club be successful and move things forward.'
Fulham chairman Shahid Khan said: 'Scott was brave to accept a very difficult challenge in February when appointed as our Caretaker Manager,'
'Since that time, day by day, whether in training or on matchday, we've undeniably become a better football club.
'Scott will now have another challenge to face, and that is to return Fulham to the Premier League. I fully believe Scott is more than up to the task.
'I appreciate that he's been clear for many years that his ultimate goal is to excel as a manager, and he will be given every opportunity to succeed at Fulham.
'I also have no doubt that he knows and loves this Club every bit as much as our supporters, and that's an intangible that everyone can welcome.'
Parker added in a statement: 'I'm delighted to be appointed Head Coach of Fulham Football Club and I thank the Chairman for entrusting me with this responsibility, as well as the support and encouragement that both he and Tony Khan have provided me.
'The players, staff and fans have all been fantastic with me since I took temporary charge.
'We are now all focused on ending this campaign with a positive result on Sunday against Newcastle and look forward to preparations for the new season, which have already begun.'
Comments
Post a Comment