Parker puts survival first

Scott Parker is delighted to be picking up awards, but claims they will mean nothing if West Ham go down.

The England international has been in sparkling form this season and has seen his efforts acknowledged by the Football Writers Association Player of the Year award.

He admits to being ‘over the moon’ at landing that prize, having spent the 2010/11 battling away in a West Ham side that has struggled throughout.

There is still much work to be done if the Hammers are to preserve their Premier League status, with the basement battle set to go down to the wire.

“The main focus this year is staying in the Premier League with West Ham and if we don’t do it the personal accolades will be very, very disappointing.”
Scott Parker Quotes of the week

Keeping the club in the top flight remains Parker’s priority for now, with it vital for the capital outfit that they remain among England’s elite.

Should he be able to help keep the Hammers afloat he will then be able to celebrate his personal accolades, but should they tumble through the trapdoor then the season must be written off as a failure.

“I stated recently the main focus this year is staying in the Premier League with West Ham and if we don’t do it the personal accolades will be very, very disappointing,” said Parker.

“Our main aim is to stay in the Premier League. We’ve got five big, big games left and hopefully we can get the points we need and stay in the league.”

Troubles

Parker has been left speechless by the FWA award and is also struggling to put his finger on what has gone wrong at Upton Park this season.

He added: “I cannot explain to you the way it’s gone for me on a personal level. Accolades and awards are massive…I’m absolutely over the moon.

“I’m playing well, obviously I wish we could be in a better position in the league but on a personal level things are going good for me.

“I need to keep continuing that, working hard, and staying on the right track.

“As for the team’s under-performance it is not just this season,” he added.

“Last season as well we had our troubles and it’s gone into this season.

“We have got a very good squad and some very good players but for one reason or another we haven’t picked up the points we need.

“If I could put my finger on it I would. We need to try to pick up some results. But we still have a chance.”