Burnley manager Scott Parker was visibly moved to tears as his team clinched promotion back to the Premier League.
Parker`s team secured their place in the top tier with a 2-1 victory over Sheffield United at Turf Moor on Easter Monday, joining Leeds United in the automatic promotion spots.
This promotion marks Parker`s continued perfect record of achieving promotion to the Premier League in every attempt.
Previously, he guided Fulham to the Premier League in 2000 and Bournemouth in 2002.
Taking charge at Turf Moor only in July, succeeding Vincent Kompany, Parker has orchestrated a remarkable season for Burnley.
The promotion was secured thanks to a brace from Josh Brownhill, who scored a precise goal in the 28th minute and a penalty just before halftime, ensuring Burnley`s swift return to the top flight.
Parker`s emotions were evident immediately after his third Premier League promotion was confirmed, with two games still remaining in the season.
Following the final whistle, he joined his players on the pitch to celebrate after six minutes of added time.
The 44-year-old manager openly wept tears of joy and relief before embracing club captain Brownhill.
Cameras captured Parker sharing this emotional moment with his family in the stands, overcome with happiness.
Parker expressed his feelings, saying, “It means everything. Our mission was promotion, and despite challenges, it`s been incredible. I`m immensely proud of this dedicated young team.”
He added, “This promotion feels particularly special, especially after facing setbacks in my managerial career. Taking a year to reset and then embracing this challenge has been incredibly rewarding. I am both relieved and overjoyed.”
Reflecting on his recent managerial path, Parker acknowledged his dismissals from Fulham and Bournemouth. Fulham let him go after relegation, only to achieve promotion shortly after under Marco Silva. Bournemouth also parted ways with Parker shortly after he led them to the Premier League.
Looking ahead, Parker confirmed the team`s ambition to secure the Championship title: “We will celebrate today, but our goal is to win the title. That remains our focus.”
However, the celebratory atmosphere was slightly marred by an incident involving Sheffield United player Hamza Choudhury, as Burnley fans invaded the pitch. A fan appeared to confront Choudhury in a provocative manner.
Burnley owner Alan Pace praised Parker`s impact since joining in the summer to replace Kompany. “His performance has exceeded all expectations. He`s demonstrated exceptional leadership, inspiring both himself and those around him.”
Pace continued, “He is truly remarkable, consistently showing how to excel in this league. He brings out the best in himself and everyone connected with the club.”
