Spurs tried to hire their former midfielder as coach in 2021, and sources says he’s on their shortlist again
Tottenham Hotspur are exploring their managerial options for next season, with current Burnley coach Scott Parker emerging as a surprise candidate to take over from Ange Postecoglou.
This comes amid growing uncertainty over the Australian’s future. Despite guiding Spurs to a Europa League semi-final, Postecoglou’s grip on the job appears to be loosening following an underwhelming Premier League campaign that has left the club’s ambitions in doubt.
Spurs have lost 18 games so far in the league, with only the three sides in the relegation zone having lost more. With a pivotal few weeks ahead, including a semi-final clash against Bodo/Glimt and a tough league fixture away to Liverpool, the club’s hierarchy is quietly assessing alternatives should a change be required this summer, according to The Sun.
One name gathering traction is Scott Parker, who has drawn plaudits this season for leading Burnley to promotion back to the Premier League. People close to the situation say that his style of football and commitment to youth development have caught the attention of Spurs chiefs, who are understood to value those attributes as part of a potential long-term project for the club.
“There’s a view among many at the club that he could be a potential boss for Spurs,” said an insider to The Sun, “but the board know if they do replace the current manager they need to get the next appointment spot on.
“It might be the case that it’s a bit early for Parker. But he’s definitely someone who might potentially end up in the Spurs dugout one day.”
Parker, a former Spurs midfielder, was nearly handed the reins back in 2021 while in charge at Fulham.
Although the Englishman’s top-flight spells with Fulham and Bournemouth ended in disappointment – infamously losing 9-0 to Liverpool, the greatest margin in Premier League history – his stock has risen significantly with Burnley’s impressive Championship campaign.
However, some within Tottenham are thought to be cautious. While Parker’s philosophy aligns with Tottenham’s aspirations, there are concerns about whether he is ready for a club of Spurs’ stature and the demands that come with it.
The club are also reported to be considering other names, including Fulham’s Marco Silva and Bournemouth’s Andoni Iraola. Both managers have Premier League experience and a reputation for attacking football.
With Spurs just one place away from the relegation zone, silverware in Europe might in fact be the only real bargaining chip left for Postecoglou.
“It’s going to be a big summer at Spurs,” said the insider. “If they can win the Europa League, then it’s very unlikely that Ange will go anywhere.
“He’ll have earned the opportunity to start the new season and to try and turn around Spurs’ fortunes in the Premier League.”
