Parker: Benjamin Brian Colin (Ben)
2003-Current
(Player Details)
Left Back
Born: Pontefract: 15-11-1987
Debut: v Macclesfield Town (a): 14-08-2007
5’11” 11st 6lb (2007)
Parker started his career with Leeds United as a trainee in 2003. Capped by England at
Youth level he was loaned to Bradford City for the 2006-07 season to give him experience at
the first team level. Although not always a regular, he notched up thirty-five League starts
as well as four more appearances from the bench and a further appearance in the FA Cup. He
returned to Elland Road and signed a cotract as soon as Leeds were able to sign players. He
made his first-team debut at Macclesfield Town on 14th August 2007 in the First Round of the
Carling Cup. Dennis Wise did not wish to rush him into the first team and although he had
made nine League appearances, of which three were off the bench, he also had made six
appearances in the Cup competitions. His progress was such that in October 2007 he was given
a two year extension to his contract. In February 2008 he was loaned out to Darlington for a
month which was extended to be for the rest of the season. He made thirteen League appearances
and then after helping the Quakers to the League Two Play-offs added a further appearance to
his tally before returning to Leeds after the play-off finals. He was back at Elland Road
for the 2008–09 season, and scored his first goal on 17th November 2008, in an F.A. Cup
First Round replay at Northampton Town with a thirty-five-yard shot in a 5–2 win. His
performances grew in strength and he finished the season as the regular left-back and pushing
for England Under-Twenty-one honours. He also had strong games in the play-offs playing a
major part in United's goal in the Play-Off Secong Leg, when, after a seventy-yard run down
the left flank, his resulting cross was tapped home by Becchio from close range. On 8th July
2009, he signed a three year extension to his contract at Leeds. After laying on a goal for
Jermaine Beckford in the opening game of the season win against Exeter City, in the same game
he suffered a hamstring injury and had to be substituted. He did not play another game up
until the end of September and had to consult a specialist. A scan revealed he needed an
operation on his hip. During the time he was absentLeeds found it difficult to replace him,
with Andy Hughes, Aidy White and loanee Tony Capaldi all being tried with little success. in
January he tried to make a return but his injury re-emerged after a Reserve game. After two
substitute appearances he finally made his second start of the season on 24th April 2010
against MK Dons. He suffered a calf strain which ended his season. It is expected that he
will be first choice left-back in the 2010-11 season.