The clock is ticking at Turf Moor. Following a dismal run of results that has left Burnley rooted to the bottom of the Premier League, the board is reportedly preparing for a change. With the Clarets currently sitting 11 points adrift of safety after a winless streak that stretches back to October, the "Exclusive" word from TEAMtalk is that a "perfect" replacement has already been identified: Craig Bellamy.
While Scott Parker insists he is a "fighter" who won't walk away, the atmosphere at Turf Moor has turned toxic, with fans openly calling for his dismissal during the recent 2-0 defeat to West Ham.
Why Bellamy is the "Perfect" Fit
The choice of Bellamy isn't just a random name from a shortlist; it’s a move designed to return to the club's recent identity. Currently the manager of the Wales national team, Bellamy is viewed as the "natural successor" to the project started by Vincent Kompany.
Turf Moor History: Bellamy spent two successful years as Kompany's right-hand man at Burnley, playing a pivotal role in their 101-point Championship-winning campaign.
Internal Admiration: Senior figures at the club reportedly "fell in love" with Bellamy's coaching methods and intensity during his previous stint.The Style Factor: Many fans have grown weary of Parker’s more conservative approach. Bellamy represents a return to the high-pressing, expansive football that the Burnley squad was originally built to play.
The Looming Relegation Reality
Burnley's situation is dire. With only 15 points from 25 games, the club is effectively preparing for life back in the Championship. The logic behind the "Bellamy plan" is two-fold:
The "Great Escape" Gamble: If appointed now, could Bellamy spark a miraculous turnaround in the final 13 games?
The Championship Reset: If relegation is inevitable, the board wants a manager who knows how to win the second tier and can oversee a total squad rebuild this summer.The Obstacles: International Ties
The only major hurdle is Bellamy’s current commitment to Wales. Having taken the national job in 2024, he has brought a fresh energy to the Welsh setup. However, the allure of the Premier League and a return to a club where he is already a "cult hero" behind the scenes might be enough to tempt him back to club management.
The Verdict on Parker
Scott Parker’s tenure has been marred by a lack of offensive threat, highlighted by the "childish" performance against Sunderland where the team managed just 0.06 xG. With the board’s patience exhausted and a "must-win" clash against Crystal Palace looming tonight (Feb 11), any further slip-up will likely see the trigger pulled.