West Ham confirm Parker as boss

What the report says

West Ham United have appointed former midfielder Scott Parker as their new head coach on a two-and-a-half-year contract, BBC Sport reports. The move comes after the club dismissed Nuno Espirito Santo on Tuesday, following what the article describes as a poor start to the Championship season. Parker, 46, returns to a club where he played during his career and is set to take charge for the first time on Wednesday away to Cardiff City.

BBC Sport says Parker arrives with a strong recent record in the Championship, having previously guided Fulham, Bournemouth and Burnley to promotion. He has been out of work since leaving Burnley in April after their relegation from the Premier League. His appointment is being presented by West Ham as part of an attempt to steady the team and push back toward the top flight.

The club also confirmed parts of Parker’s support staff. First-team coaches Steve Potts, Gerard Prenderville and Billy Lepine will assist him, while former teammate Mark Noble will work closely with him as sporting director. West Ham said more backroom appointments will be announced later.

In comments on the club website, Parker described the job as a proud return to a club that means a great deal to him and his family. He said he felt a strong connection with the fanbase and expressed enthusiasm about leading West Ham in their bid to return to the Premier League.