Newcastle United’s Premier League rivals announce shock managerial departure

Bournemouth have confirmed they have parted company with former Newcastle United midfielder Scott Parker.

The Cherries suffered a record-equalling 9-0 defeat at Liverpool on Saturday and are currently sat just outside of the Premier League relegation zone after winning just one of their opening four games of the season.

Parker took charge at the Vitality Stadium in June 2021 and guided the Cherries to promotion in his first season in charge as they finished as runners-up to his former club Fulham.

However, a challenging summer in the transfer market left the former Magpies captain up against as the club returned to the Premier League for the first time since they suffered relegation under Eddie Howe in July 2020.

Bournemouth have now confirmed they have ‘parted company’ with Parker and club owner Maxim Denim revealed the reasons behind the surprise decision.

In a statement released on the club website, he said: “I would like to place on record my gratitude to Scott and his team for their efforts during their time with us. Our promotion back to the Premier League last season under his tenure will always be remembered as one of the most successful seasons in our history.

“However, in order for us to keep progressing as a team and a Club as a whole, it is unconditional that we are aligned in our strategy to run the club sustainably. We must also show belief in and respect for one another.

“That is the approach that has brought this club so much success in recent history, and one that we will not veer from now. Our search for a new head coach will begin immediately.”

The Cherries have also confirmed former Middlesbrough midfielder Gary O’Neil will take interim charge.