- Paul Parker speaks to Read Man Utd
- Praises some of Reds’ greatest defenders
- Describes his “greatest” teammate at Old Trafford
Over the years, Manchester United have been blessed with some world-class defenders. There has been a range of quality around, all the way from the 1990’s to the modern definition of full-backs in the 2010’s.
On either flank, the fullback position at Old Trafford has often been occupied by standard bearers. It’s a legacy that today’s squad players are still measured against.
When one of Sir Alex Ferguson’s original ‘fledglings’ speaks out on who he believes are the best, fans must take note. The timeless debate about which legends were the number one in their roles will never get old.
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Parker Praises United Greats
Former United defender Paul Parker lifted two Premier League titles, one FA Cup, one League Cup and the FA Charity Shield with the club. He was the undisputed first-choice right-back during the dawn of United’s dominance in the 90’s.
His career at Old Trafford spanned five years before injuries caught up. Soon after, the Class of ’92 star, Gary Neville, eventually locked down the right-back role. Throughout his career, Parker was managed by the legendary Ferguson, Sir Bobby Robson, Terry Venables and Howard Kendall.
Speaking with Read Man Utd via freebets.com, the home of best betting sites, Parker was asked to identify the best full-back he ever witnessed in a red shirt. He also shed some light on the ultimate “greatest” teammate he shared a pitch with, both training and during matchdays.
But before that, the former England international was quick to point out three other legendary fullbacks who have donned the red shirt. “Denis Irwin and Gary Neville are up there for sure,” Parker exclusively told ReadManUtd. “Patrice Evra, as well, was an excellent full-back for the club.”
However, the 62-year-old’s biggest praise was not reserved for a defender, but rather a midfield great. Parker said: “Best player I played with? Bryan Robson was an excellent player, a real leader and quality player.”
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Inheritance of United DNA
Parker’s glowing reference on Irwin and Neville in particular comes as no surprise. Even to this day, Irwin is seen by many as one of Ferguson’s greatest ever signings. He was the definition of reliability on the opposite flank to Parker in the first rendition of United’s greatest hitters under the Scotsman.
Neville was the hungry youngster who eventually succeeded Parker, inheriting the same work ethic which was needed to succeed at the club. Uncompromisingly, Neville held that position for club and country for the best part of the next decade.
Patrice Evra was the modern-day legend who took on the left-back role seriously on all levels. The Frenchman’s aggressiveness, passion and infectious character were instrumental in the success achieved between 2006 and 2013 in particular.
Yet, it is Parker’s praise of the legendary Bryan Robson as his greatest-ever teammate that carries the most weight. ‘Captain Marvel’ was the beating heart of Manchester United long before the trophies came in abundance. For a defender like Parker, having a powerhouse like Robson patrolling the midfield gave an entirely different level of security on the pitch.
