Former France U21 international of Nigerian descent Lesley Ugochukwu will work under  a new manager at Burnley, following the club's confirmation on Thursday morning that Scott Parker has left his role by mutual consent.

Ugochukwu is a target for the Nigeria Football Federation and manager Eric Chelle, but the Rennes native is currently leaning towards continuing his international career with his country of birth, France.

Parker spent two seasons at Burnley, leading the club to Premier League promotion in his debut campaign. 

That remarkable season included a historic 100-point haul and a record-breaking defensive record.

However, life in the top flight has proved far more challenging, with Burnley already condemned to relegation back to the Championship despite four games still remaining.

Ugochukwu completed a permanent transfer to the Clarets from Chelsea last summer, signing a deal until the end of the 2029-2030 season.

With Parker in the Burnley dugout, the defensive midfielder played in 35 matches across all competitions, scoring three goals and providing two assists. 

Burnley have confirmed that plans are already underway to appoint a new manager ahead of next season, but for now, Ugochukwu and his teammates will be guided by interim coach Mike Jackson.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel