TS Galaxy striker Bernard Parker has opened up on the possibility of taking up coaching when his decorated playing career comes to an end.

At 36, Parker is at the twilight of what has been a glittering football career that including multiple league tittles both locally and abroad, as well the Lesley Manyathela Golden Boot for his exploits in the 2013/14 season.

The veteran striker was very nearly forced into retirement after suffering a leg-breaking tackle from Mamelodi Sundowns' Bongani Zungu during the quarterfinals of the Carling Knockout.

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After a successful surgery though, Parker is back at TS Galaxy's training facilities and spoke openly about about the possibility of taking up coaching.

"When it comes to coaching, I have obtained my CAF C license and I'm just waiting for the CAF B license to come up," Parker said during the club's media day. 

"It's very interesting and fun for me too, getting to learn football from outside the four corners of the field.

"It's a whole different thing and a whole interesting thing and when it comes to coaching, I'm not sure yet. Maybe I'll be sure If I get to obtain my A license in the near future. Maybe next year or the year after.

"I've just made sure that I try and equip myself with regards to sport as much as I can.

"So I've started getting to obtain Sport Management, which I did, then Sport Marketing, which I've obtained, then I did Personal Training, Exercise Science and Sports Nutrition, Group Exercise. 

"So, I've just managed to obtain as much as I can, so I can get to understand the game better.

"Now currently, I'm in my third year of Sports Psychology and Life Coaching. So when it do comes to me hanging up the boots, I'm sure I will make a decision at that time.

"For now I'm just enjoying myself because I love the game. Loving the game is making sure that I know the game as best as I can, so that by the time I hang up my boots, I will be able to make a decision." 

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Although involved in light training, Parker remains sidelined with injury and expects to return to competitive action around February or March 2024.

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