By Michael Madyira
Burnley manager Scott Parker is trying to stamp his authority at Burnley with high expectations from his players.
The former Chelsea midfielder is the new Burnley manager and is tasked with guiding the Clarets back to the Premier League.
His pool of players includes Bafana Bafana forward Lyle Foster who struggled for form last season.
The former Orlando Pirates striker managed five goals in 26 games across all competitions for Burnley last term.
It was a season in which he also struggled with mental health issues – and Parker is trying to introduce his way of doing business at the Championship club.
“There’s a lot of things which I need to try and tick off, of course there is,” Parker told Burnley’s media.
“One important thing is getting these players up to speed, in terms of pre-season and getting them fit.
“But, I think more important is for the players to understand what I’m about and what I represent.
“Certainly, what I want our team to represent along with the fans and everyone at the football club.”
Burnley has begun their pre-season training and have been playing friendly matches behind closed doors while one match is lined up against Cadiz.
Parker has been trying to stamp his authority and motivate the Clarets who are keen on getting rid of the relegation mentality after demotion from the Premier League.
“I’ve tried to put my stamp on that as well in terms of creating an environment and a culture here, which is one wanting to get better and improve every day and the whole football club has embraced that,” the manager added.
“As a coach, that’s what you need. You can come with your ideas. You can come with all the tactical knowledge.
“But ultimately what you need, first and foremost, is a willingness to learn and an environment to want to come into and enjoy.”
It’s important for Foster to try and make himself a regular player under Parker after a difficult campaign last season.
Pictured above: Burnley FC and Bafana Bafana forward Lyle Foster
Source: Burnley FC
