12thsept05

Monday 12th September 2005

Cugley appoints Parker to assist Invicta

Former Manchester United and England defender Paul Parker has joined Folkestone Invicta as assistant manager, writes Richard Murrill - www.folkestoneinvicta.co.uk

“Paul agreed to join us after I met with him on Friday,” said delighted manager Neil Cugley.

“Paul and I have known each other for a few years now, have become good friends and often speak to each other.

"His knowledge of football in the Essex and London areas will be invaluable for us as well as the high profile he has within the game.

"Paul will play an important role for us particularly in watching other teams and helping us to recruit players. He does a lot of work with MUTV at Manchester United and has other media commitments which he will continue with whilst carrying out his duties here as well,” added Cugley.

The news comes as a real boost to Invicta who have yet to win a game so far this season and are currently second from bottom in the Ryman Premier League table.

41-year-old Parker won 19 caps for England at right back and was a member of the side which reached the World Cup semi finals under Bobby Robson in 1990.

He played a prominent role in the semi final defeat against West Germany as Andy Brehme’s shot deflected off him and over goalkeeper Peter Shilton to give Germany the lead, but his pass then set up striker Gary Lineker for England’s equaliser before Gazza’s tears and the heartbreaking penalty shoot out defeat.

Parker started his career as a youngster at Fulham before making his name at Queens Park Rangers in 1987. He then joined Manchester United in 1991, where was part of the side that won the first Premiership in 1992-93 and then the double in 1993-94. He made 136 appearances for United and a further nine as substitute, scoring two goals.

His playing career also saw spells with Fulham, Derby County, Chelsea, Sheffield United, Leyton Orient and Farnborough Town.

He begins his new role at Invicta’s away game against Ryman Premier League leaders Hampton & Richmond Borough on Saturday September 17th.

Parker first became involved in the non-league game as Director of Football at Ashford Town under Rodney Marsh’s consortium during the late 1990s and has since managed both Chelmsford City and Welling United.