Spurs best XI in depth: Scott Parker

Was it really going to be anyone else? The other half of To the Lane and Back's midfield duo, summer arrival Scott Parker completes the defensive aspect of the formation.

Parker was linked with a move to Spurs throughout the transfer window and many fans remains sceptical about why he was being signed. Some felt he may have done well at West Ham United but then again, so could have anyone.

Captaining the Hammers to relegation is something Parker will like to forget quickly but and it isn't anything to put on a CV and be proud of. Nonetheless, his displays for them were beyond exceptional and even though the critics were out in full force when he picked up the FWA Player of the Year, it is an award he thoroughly deserved.

Arsenal and Liverpool were both credited with an interest in the 30-year-old and their loss is most definitely Spurs gain. His displays alongside Luka Modric thus far have been superb, having broken up play successfully while covering every blade of grass in the process, Parker has rightfully received the plaudits he has worked hard to earn.

Starting his career with Charlton Athletic, Parker has also turned out for Chelsea, Newcastle United and West Ham and consistently excelled during his time with his previous respective clubs. His energetic displays in the centre of park saw him praised by his peers and it is hardly surprising that he continuously picked up individual accolades for god performances.

Never given a real opportunity to showcase his abilities with Chelsea, both Newcastle and West Ham were more than happy to give him the chance he deserved and it's hardly surprising he racked up over 160 league appearances in just over six years for both clubs.

Now at Spurs, many believe the 30-year-old has finally been presented with the opportunity that eluded him at Chelsea to ply his trade at the top level. His first four games with the club, all wins, has certainly allowed Parker to do what he does best and his escapades certainly haven't gone un-noticed, turning in four top class performances, including a man-of-the-match display in the 2-1 win over Arsenal last week.

Alongside Modric or Sandro, the England man can thrive in his new environment with many believing he should be partnered with the latter to allow the former to break forward and support the attack. At just £5.5m, he is being dubbed a potential signing of the summer and you would be hard pressed to find anyone who would disagree.

Comments

[Razspur]

Parker has had a superb start to his Spurs career, 4 good workmanlike performances, 2 of which were MOTM but it`s a bit early to make assertions, lets give him to Jan before going over the top, indications however are that he is a good improvement and may well release Modric to play in a more forward position. I am prepared to eat humble pie as he is much better than i expected and if he keeps it up i will be pleasently suprised. Friedel has also brought stability and confidence to the defence and Ade has added steel and seems to inspire Defoe who looks much sharper. All in all seems like a good job Harry but i was pulling my hair out throughout the summer with the lack of movement during the window while other top 4 clubs had sorted their buisness early. The only concern seems to be the need for a world class striker in Jan as we are depending too much on Ade who is only on loan after all, but we need cover. COYS

[tony]

parker has always been a underated player.not so many caps for england.put it down to poor managers.spurs now cover 7 positions with top class players.the 4 that to me dont make it are.1,defoe doesnt score hes a passenger.2.lennon great approach work ,crossing poor and doesnt score enough goals.3.dawson ,hate to moan at a player that gives 105% every game,but reaction time to slow.4 kaboul,same applies as dawson.one more complaint.adebayour gets injured who have we got zilch.we hope one day to win the league.not in my lifetime.still support spurs while i have breath.