Super Sam wouldn't say no to County Ground return (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Super Sam wouldn't say no to County Ground return

8:31am Friday 29th May 2009

• Print
• Email
• Share
• Comments(0)

Former Swindon Town hero Sam Parkin has refused to rule out a return to the County Ground, after being released by relegated League Two outfit Luton Town.

The 28-year-old striker was one of five players who did not have their contracts renewed by the Hatters, with another former Town player, full-back Sol Davis, also among their number.

Parkin, who wrote a popular column for the Gazette, was a firm favourite with the Town faithful during a three-year stay at the club between 2002 and 2005, during which time he scored 73 goals in 135 appearances, although a County Ground comeback seems unlikely.

He was touted as a possible Town transfer target last summer, but while chairman Andrew Fitton is convinced a fit Parkin is more than capable of doing a job in League One, he doubts the wisdom of bringing back a former hero idolised by the fans.

When asked if he would consider a return to his most successful stomping ground, the Roehampton-born striker said: “I think I’d be stupid to turn my nose up at anything, especially in the predicament I find myself in. I’d listen to all offers.

“Everyone knows the affection I’ve got for the club.

“You always look out for your old side, they are always going to be one of the first results I look for and I was pleased they managed to stay up.”

Parkin feels League One is a realistic level for him to aim at given that he has been part of a struggling team in recent times.

“I’d obviously love to stay in the League,” he said.

“I’m realistic, I’m probably not going to get a Championship club because of the last couple of years.

“But I’m confident in my ability, I’ve scored goals when I’ve been a regular in a side.

“I’m just looking forward to getting a fresh start. My agent will be talking to various clubs and hopefully can get something sorted.”

The former Town hitman also gave his verdict on Simon Cox, whose future has been the subject of much speculation since the turn of the year.

“To be honest I’ve not seen a great deal of him, apart from the goals, but he looks like an absolutely fantastic player from the little glimpses I’ve seen,” said Parkin.

“Inevitably he’s going to go on and play at a higher level, I’m sure he’s ambitious.

“You find it difficult to turn down when there are three or four Championship clubs around you.

“Swindon can only sell if the price is right, and the club may say the money is too good to turn down. It will be out of his hands like it was out of my hands.”

• Print
• Email
• Share
• Comments(0)