Scott Parker surprised his former teammate Paolo Di Canio ahead of his Champions League debut as a coach with Club Brugge, saying the ex-Italian striker was the most influential person in his playing career.
Parker spoke to Sky Sport Italia ahead of the first leg of the Champions League Round of 16 against Benfica. It’s his first Champions League game as a coach.
Di Canio was listening to his pre-match interview in the studio of Sky Sport Italia.
“Honestly, he [Di Canio] had a key role in my career,” said the former England international.
“I think nobody more than him has helped me in my career. I was a kid and he gave me precious advice for my career. I hope I can see him soon.”
Di Canio and Parker played together at Charlton Athletic in 2003-04. They both played at West Ham, but in different seasons. The former Lazio and Milan striker looked surprised by Parker’s claims.
“I appreciate it. The last time I saw him was five or six years ago at an event, but I hadn’t realised I helped him so much.
“I immediately noticed he was a smart guy who would listen carefully and understand many things.”
Di Canio scored 66 goals in 190 appearances in the Premier League, more than he managed in Serie A where he found the net 32 times in 245 matches.
The former striker never played for Italy and managed two goals in nine appearances with the U21 squad.