London, Aug 31: Scott Parker handed in a transfer request at second-tier club West Ham on Tuesday as he looks to complete a move back to the Premier League with Tottenham.
“I hope the fans will understand and respect my decision,” the 30-year-old England midfielder said on West Ham's website.
Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp said he does not “envisage too many problems now” with a deal being done.
“It should be a deal that gets completed—we'll just keep our fingers crossed that it does,” Redknapp said. “He's a good player. I think he's what we need. He's a good lad, great attitude.”
Despite West Ham being relegated from the Premier League in May, Parker was named Football Writers' Association Footballer of the Year.
“The manager and board have tried hard to convince me to stay but at this stage in my career, I need to be playing in the Premier League, especially now that I am involved with England,” Parker said. “I hope the fans will understand and respect my decision and I wish the club every success in their fight for promotion this season.”
Tottenham is bottom of the Premier League after losing its opening two matches. AP
