Troy Parrott’s impressive beginning at Real Betis continued as he scored the winning goal on his UEFA Champions League debut against Lille, prompting former West Ham United player Joe Cole to predict that “the big guns will be circling” if the Republic of Ireland striker maintains his current form.
Parrott’s goal gave Manuel Pellegrini’s side all three points in France and came just one week after he struck the winner against Real Madrid. The back-to-back decisive performances have provided a significant boost for the 22-year-old, who described his goal at Stade Pierre-Mauroy as “very special”.
The forward joined Real Betis from AZ Alkmaar during the summer after choosing a move to Spain rather than a transfer to England. West Ham United had been tracking Parrott, but his early impact in La Liga and the UEFA Champions League has already led to speculation that further interest could follow.
Cole, who previously played for West Ham United, believes Parrott’s progress could attract attention from some of Europe’s leading clubs if he continues to perform at the same level.
"It's been refreshing. He's a big star for Ireland now as well, and they're probably pinning their hopes on him.
"I don't know what the situation was for him at Spurs. Was he low on confidence? Did he get the right opportunities?
"The talent is clearly there. But, credit to him, he's gone away and developed. If he carries on in this vein, the big guns will be circling."
Parrott’s latest goal added to a rapid run of form at the start of his Real Betis career. His winner against Real Madrid had already made him the difference-maker in a major domestic fixture, before he repeated that decisive contribution on his European debut.
The striker’s move to Spain followed a period in which questions had been raised about his opportunities and confidence during his time at Tottenham Hotspur. Cole said the talent had always been evident, while also crediting Parrott with developing after leaving England.
Parrott now has goals in consecutive matches for Pellegrini’s team, with his latest effort arriving on one of the biggest stages in club football. His performances have also increased his importance to the Republic of Ireland, with Cole describing him as a major figure for the national side.
For Real Betis, the victories over Real Madrid and Lille represent an encouraging start to Parrott’s time at the club. For the player, the goals have offered an immediate response after his summer move from AZ Alkmaar and ensured he has made a notable impression in the UEFA Champions League.