Former Premier League star, 43, turns up as mascot for non-league football match
Former Premier League star, 43, turns up as mascot for non-league football match
Share:
Former striker Jon Parkin made a surprise appearance for Dorking Wanderers on Saturday - as a mascot. It was a momentous match for the non-league side, who are vying for an immediate return to the National League. Their National League South game against Weston Super-Mare commemorated the 1,000th in the club’s history, though a 3-1 defeat damaged their promotion hopes.
Formed in 1999, Dorking’s rapid ascent from the bottom of the football pyramid to the heights of the National League deserves immense praise. Co-founder Marc White is both manager and chairman of Wanderers, who are currently in the play-off places and five points off top spot.
However, it was the shock appearance of ex-Stoke City and Preston striker Parkin that most caught the eye at Meadowbank over the weekend. The 43-year-old was pictured holding hands with Dorking captain Charlie Carter as the team headed onto the pitch, much to the surprise of football fans.
The Undr the Cosh podcast, which Parkin co-hosts, posted a picture of him in full Dorking kit with the caption: “Something familiar about today's @DorkingWDRS mascot.” The National League’s official X account replied: “Jon Parkin back in the National League. You love to see it.”.
One fan wrote: “Thought he was rolling back the years at first.” While another also thought Parkin could “still do a job”. They weren’t the only ones sensing a comeback, with a third saying: “Probably try and bring him on. Comfy bag a brace and be the best player in the side even now.” Noting the prank that had been pulled on him, a fourth fan said: “Stitched him a treat.".
