Across thirteen seasons at Arsenal, Ray Parlour played in over 450 matches, netting 32 goals. The ‘Romford Pele’ showed he was much more than a fan favourite in the red half of north London.
His down-to-earth personality resonated with supporters, but as he gained experience, his leadership qualities shone through, and he became a vital, yet often overlooked, member of Arsene Wenger’s squads.
Parlour secured nine major titles while playing for the Gunners. But which contests held the most significance for him?
The games that shaped Ray Parlour’s career
Liverpool 2-0 Arsenal, old First Division, 1992
“My first match as a professional. Up until then, I was used to playing reserve team matches with only a small number of spectators, then I was suddenly presented with this enormous opportunity. It took place at Anfield – such a well known stadium. There aren’t many more intimidating places than one of the most famous grounds in the world. A few days before, George Graham informed me that I would be in the team and I genuinely tried to avoid thinking about it too much, as I knew I wouldn’t have been able to sleep due to the nervousness and anticipation.
“I remember my father coming to see me – he was sitting in the directors’ box and told me afterwards how proud he felt watching his son playing at Anfield. That occasion means a great deal to me.”
Arsenal 4-0 Everton, Premier League, 1998
“Arsene Wenger’s maiden Double and an amazing season for me personally. The Everton match, where we guaranteed the title, is a particularly strong memory. We dominated them and Tony Adams scored with a superb half-volley.
“I think I gave one of my best displays that day, putting in maximum effort, even though I didn’t get on the scoresheet. I was voted Arsenal’s player of the season that year – which was quite an achievement considering the likes of Dennis Bergkamp, Marc Overmars and Nicolas Anelka were also in the side.
“But I performed my role in a memorable season. I was part of the Invincibles team too, but I think I was at my peak during that Double winning season. As soon as one match ended, I couldn’t wait for the next one to come around.”
Arsenal 2-0 Chelsea, FA Cup Final, 2002
“When I was growing up, the FA Cup final was the most important event. It was the highlight of the year and one of very few matches that you could watch live on TV back then. My parents were avid fans, and I would always watch it with them and my brothers.
“So, to then go on and participate in those games was a huge thing for my whole family. I appeared in the 1993 FA Cup Final, which we eventually won after a replay against Sheffield Wednesday, but I also scored in the 2002 final against Chelsea – a decent curler too. To score in an FA Cup final on the way to lifting the trophy is what every boy dreams of. It was one of the greatest days I’ve ever experienced.”
