The two teams are set to meet for the first time since January 2024, when Manchester City won 3-1. Manchester City have won each of their last 13 meetings with Burnley, and Parker is looking to break this record.

Parker was asked if his team is where he expected them to be after the first five games, given their 16th place in the table. He replied that he thinks they are in a good place, having faced tough and challenging fixtures from the start of the season.

Parker noted that his team has shown resilience at times, which has been encouraging for him as a manager. They have faced tough challenges and have taken some positive lessons from them, despite being on the wrong end of a couple of close results.

Parker acknowledged that Manchester City is a tough opponent, but he believes his team can be competitive against them at the Etihad Stadium. He mentioned that his team has faced challenging fixtures already this season and has come out with confidence.

Parker also spoke about the return of Kyle Walker, who will face his former team this weekend. Walker had a successful eight-year stint at Manchester City, winning 18 trophies and making over 300 appearances. Parker praised Walker's impact on the team, citing his experience and quality.

Parker mentioned that Walker has been a positive influence on the team, embracing the different environment and playing style at Burnley. He also spoke about the importance of the team's underdog mentality, which he believes is crucial in their fight to survive relegation.

Parker emphasized the importance of the team's unity and togetherness, saying that it's essential for a club to be on the same page and pushing in the same direction. He acknowledged that his team will have to fight and scrap at times, but he believes they have the right mindset to do so.