Scott Parker’s own development as a coach at Tottenham Hotspur is one to watch

Scott Parker in action for Fulham against Tottenham Hotspur in the FA Cup (pic: Nick Potts/PA Images). PA Wire/PA Images

Experienced midfielder has thought about new role for a long time and should have tools to enjoy successful career post-retirement

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Tottenham Hotspur under-18 coach Scott Parker expressed his delight at being back involved at the Premier League club this week and it is easy to see why his recent appointment was met with so much enthusiasm.

The 36-year-old decided to call time on his playing career last month and days later he linked up with his old team.

Spurs revealed Parker would be returning to the club as their new under-18 coach and as a club ambassador on June 30.

Given his popularity during his two-year spell at Tottenham, it was no surprise to see the move greeted with positivity.

But this isn’t just delight at a club bringing one of their old players back to help out with coaching, it could genuinely be the start of a special partnership.

Parker made the decision to leave West Ham United in the summer of 2011 and officially signed for Tottenham on August 31 of that year.

The former Charlton Athletic ace quickly endeared himself to the Spurs supporters with his all-action displays.

But it was during this time when Parker started thinking about life after hanging up his boots despite only being in his early thirties.

John McDermott, Tottenham’s Head of Coaching and Player Development, was quick to spot the coaching potential of the one-time England captain.

McDermott helped Parker get on the right path with his badges and the midfielder also took some training sessions while in N17.

Parker worked with the likes of Harry Winks and Josh Onomah, who have since progressed into the Tottenham first-team.

After leaving for Fulham in 2013, he spent four years at Craven Cottage and following a decent 2016/17 season, the ex-West Ham captain probably could have continued playing, but he has made the brave decision to call time on his playing career.

With Parker now back at Spurs, it will be intriguing to see how the intelligent and thoughtful former player gets on with his new role.

Having turned his attention to coaching a long time ago, the midfielder is likely to have the tools to enjoy a long and successful career in coaching and also potentially management.

Parker is passionate about youth football and having joined Tottenham at under-18 level, there is room for him to progress and his own development as a coach will be one to watch.