Scott Parker addresses fan discontent during Burnley's miserable defeat to Everton
Burnley fans were well within their right to vent their frustration during last night’s dismal defeat to Everton.
That’s the verdict of Clarets boss Scott Parker, who took the brunt of the supporters’ anger from the away end at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Burnley fell to a 2-0 defeat on their first ever visit to Everton’s new ground, but it was their negative approach and performance which caused the most disdain.
It prompted further chants of “we want Parker out”, as well as “you don’t know what you’re doing” when Hannibal – who is currently fasting due to Ramadan – was taken off during the second-half.
There were also ironic cheers when Jaidon Anthony produced Burnley’s first shot in target in the 79th minute.
“I understand their frustration tonight, for sure,” Parker said afterwards.
"At times, I've not understood their frustration this year. But listen, it's been like that for the majority of the time I've been here, really. For a large part, there's been a real... I felt it last year and obviously I feel it this year.
“I understand tonight, absolutely, totally. We've come here tonight and not brought anything to the game, so I totally get their frustration.
“Regarding the Hannibal substitution. There's reasons why he needed to come off [Ramadan], so that was the reason.”
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Parker was also asked about the fan dissent during his post-match interview with TNT Sports.
When quizzed about the importance of keeping togetherness with the fanbase, Parker responded: "I think the togetherness within the group is there, but I don’t think it’s always been there with our supporters.
"I have to make decisions and I’m not going to stand here and justify that decision [taking off Hannibal]. There was a clear reason why that substitution has been made.
"Like always, words are very easy, but actions are a lot more difficult. I can’t really put any complaints on the supporters, they’ve come here to support us and we’ve given them absolutely nothing, so I understand their frustration.
"I’m disappointed about that and we’re upset about that, so we need to put that right and see exactly where we can get to.”
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