Troy Parrott: AZ Alkmaar forward has ‘no regrets’ about time at Tottenham

AZ Alkmaar forward Troy Parrott says he has no regrets about his time with former club Tottenham as he prepares to face them in the Europa League last 16.

The 23-year-old had his pick of the top clubs as a 15-year-old with Manchester United, Manchester City and Chelsea all interested.

He decided his future was with Spurs, but it didn’t work out for the Republic of Ireland international and he made just four senior appearances before being sent out on loan spells in the second and third tiers of English football.

In 2023, he sought a new challenge in the Dutch first division.

“For me it just didn’t happen [with Spurs]. I’m OK with that,” Parrott said.

“I look back with a smile. It’s a place where I grew up. I moved away from home quite young, so when I went there I was in a phase of going from a kid to a teenager and then past that.

“It helped me become the person and player I am now, so I can only look back on that with good memories.”

Parrott is now flourishing in the Dutch top-flight after Tottenham sold him to AZ Alkmaar in July 2024 for £6.7m following a season-long loan at Excelsior, who were relegated from the Eredivisie last season despite Parrott scoring 17 goals in 32 appearances.

This season he has featured in all 38 of AZ Alkmaar’s matches in all competitions, starting 34 and coming on as a substitute in four with a tally of 17 goals.

“I’m here, I’m really enjoying myself here, I love life over here. Now I’m just focusing on where I am right now and trying to progress and keep getting better here,” he said.