Sam Parkin Joins the Grecians

Exeter City have confirmed that they have signed Sam Parkin, 32, subject to international clearance. It’s hoped that he’ll be able to play on Thursday night against QPR.

Born in Roehampton, he qualifies as a Scottish player through his mother. He’s a recognized striker and at 6ft2, he’ll add some height to the Grecians frontline.

Parkin was released by St Mirren at the end of last season, having played 32 times for them (17 as substitute). He scored 3 times for St Mirren last season. He started his career at Chelsea, but didn’t make any first team appearances, and was released by Chelsea in 2002. While at Chelsea he spent time on loan at Millwall, Wycombe, Oldham and Northampton. He eventually signed for Swindon Town.

His career has taken him to Ipswich and Luton. Luton paid £340k for the striker. At Luton he scored the winning goal against Exeter City at St James Park in August 2009. While at Luton he went on loan to Leyton Orient, and then signed for Walsall 2009. Goals at Walsall were scarce, and at the end of the season moved to Scotland. First for St Johnstone, the Queen of the South and finally St Johnstone.

In all Sam has played 331 times, and scored 115 goals.

In an interview, Sam says he’s delighted to have joined :-

Exeter were looking to bring in a front player, and fortunately after having a meeting with the manager and a really good chat, I’ve been down to have a look at the place and I’m really delighted to have signed.

I know that Exeter have got a tradition of playing good football and the manager has obviously got a great reputation, so it was a no-brainer really – I didn’t have to think about it too hard. I’m just delighted to get another opportunity down here to play football and hopefully be part of a successful team.

“I’ll be looking to knit the play, hopefully get a few goals and be a good influence around the place for the younger players, and be a bit of experience in the front line.

There seems to be a good blend of experienced players like Matt Oakley and Tommy Doherty, and the younger boys that are coming through. It looks like there’s a really good balance to the group and I’ll be adding my experience and be a good influence around the dressing room by leading by example.