Scott Parker's ex-teammate weighs in on Burnley's controversial FA Cup selection
Burnley’s failure to capitalise on their midweek win at Crystal Palace is a major “step back” according to a former teammate of Scott Parker.
The under-fire Clarets boss controversially opted to make nine changes to the side that came from behind to win at Selhurst Park on Wednesday night.
It was a decision that majorly backfired, as Parker’s men found themselves on the wrong end of an FA Cup upset at the hands of League One Mansfield Town on Saturday.
While league survival is clearly the priority, Burnley have no midweek game next week, giving them a full five days on the training ground ahead of next week’s trip to Chelsea.
While ex-Newcastle United goalkeeper Shay Given understands Burnley’s priority is Premier League survival, he says risking such a defeat in the cup will never go down well with supporters.
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“Well again it [the mood among the fanbase] shifts but at the same time, you know Scotty Parker had to make a tough decision,” he told Match of the Day.
“He made nine changes. He wants to keep the squad fresh for the next Premier League game because their Premier League survival is important but again, when you take that step forward, beating Palace away from home midweek and then it's like a step back.
“You can see Scotty's hurting after the game in his interview. He probably wants to say more but he has to hold back.
“It's a little bit frustrating from a Burnley point of view, but again they can focus now on the Premier League which is going to be a tough run in.”
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