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TS Galaxy forward Bernard Parker is targeting three points against Kaizer Chiefs in what he expects to be an emotional return to FNB Stadium.
Parker, 36, ended his association with Chiefs at the end of last season after over a decade of service at the club – where he four trophies, including two league titles and a Lesley Manyethela Golden Boot award.
He secured a move to the Rockets and was cited as an experienced campaigner who was set to guide the young emerging talent in the squad and potential usher them into a new era, beyond the football pitch and beyond his professional career.
However, with Parker still very much on the pitch after featuring four times so far this season, he’s ready to face his former club and admits there’s mixed emotions ahead of the DStv Premiership showdown this week.
“The feeling hasn’t sunk in yet, I’m sure it will sink in when I put foot at FNB Stadium, the feeling it’s, a first-time feeling, I don’t know how to describe it and I don’t know how I will be on the day, but I’m looking forward to it,” Parker said.
“I hope on the day it will be a warm feeling. I wouldn’t say there’s anxiety to nerves, I would say it’s more of a good feeling. To play against my ex-team would be more of a feeling that would trigger emotions. I don’t know [if I will celebrate], we’ll see on the day.”
‘Die Hond’ said he’s hopeful there will be a warm reception upon his return from supporters and his former colleagues at Naturena but is ready to help his side move back up the table after a run of seven games without victory.
“I hope I receive a warm and welcome reception [from fans and former teammates], a positive reception, I hope to get that because of what I’ve done there in the past 11 years, I would like to… I’m anticipating a welcoming feeling.”
“Going into the World Cup break, as we stand now, we’re okay, two wins will take us in a good position, as we can see how the league is, if you win two or three in a row, you are up there, you amongst the top, it’s game on again,” he explained.
“So it will be good for us to go into the World Cup break confidently with a six-pointer, starting from this Wednesday [against Chiefs].”
Fourth-placed Amakhosi take on 11th placed Galaxy at the FNB Stadium on Wednesday evening at 17h30.