NEIL PARRY has returned to Alloa Athletic, signing on as a player/coach for the coming season.

The Wasps legend served as goalkeeper from 2016-2021 before signing for Clyde.

After spending three years with The Bully Wee, Parry has now come back to the Recs to take on a new challenge as a goalkeeping coach.

He has confirmed he will be registering as a player as well, only to be used in case of injury or suspension, similar to Andy Graham’s status as a player.

Speaking with Advertiser Sport, Parry discussed his new role and his excitement to get started next season.

He said: “I will be registered as a player but PJ had a fantastic season last year so all being well, it’ll be him and whoever else is number two.

“I’ll be predominantly a coach but I’ll register as a player like big Andy to provide cover as needed.

“It’ll be good as I’ll still be able to do the training side but my job will be to make sure the other goalkeepers are performing at their best.

“It’ll be something different, it’s the next step for me and to get the opportunity to work with big Andy who I have so much respect for and I’m close friends with, it’s the perfect scenario for me.

“It’ll be different doing the coaching side of things but I’ve dipped my toe in it before and I’m looking forward to it.

“I’ve seen some highlights from last year and PJ was excellent so I’m looking forward to working with him and whoever else gets signed up in the coming weeks.”

Parry made 174 appearances with Alloa over a five year spell, playing a key role as the Wasps were promoted to the Championship in 2018.

The shot stopper earned himself a spot in Team of the Year twice and also picked up the Golden Glove two times as well.

Parry spent three years at Clyde after leaving Alloa under the Barry Ferguson era but admitted he jumped at the chance to re-sign for the Wasps.

He remains full of praise for the Clackmannanshire outfit and remarked his return was a “no-brainer” when Graham came calling.

He continued: “Andy had asked me about it at the end of the season and I’m delighted to get the opportunity to work with the big man at a club that I had so many good times with.”

“I had a few other options and opportunities to keep playing but I’m good friends with Andy, played with him for years and still speak to him a lot.

“I did a couple weeks at Alloa during the season when the goalie coach was unwell, so it was a no-brainer when I spoke to Andy about it.

“I absolutely loved my time at Alloa, I still have a bit of regret about leaving because I’ve not enjoyed my football anywhere near as much since.

“There are so many good people pulling together with the fans and even from Pat the kit man and Joyce at the pie hut, everybody is so welcoming.

“I just can’t wait to get started. The season can’t start quick enough. I’m desperate to get started in this new side of things and I just want to get going.”