Parker says his recent run has given him a massive boost as he looks to stake a claim for a permanent place in the first team line-up.

Parker, who played just 10 minutes in the first three months of the season, said: “I’ve been more involved recently and feel that I’ve given the manager a bit of belief in me as a player. Maybe that wasn’t there from him first of all.

“Perhaps he wasn’t sure about me at the start of the season. I’m glad that I’ve had the chance to show him about me and I feel I’ve done that.”

Meanwhile Dutch legend Marco van Basten has backed flying winger Arjen Robben to emulate his own achievements and become the best player in the world.

The former AC Milan striker won two ‘World Player of the Year’ titles’ before an ankle injury forced him to retire prematurely.

Van Basten has made a successful start to his managerial career with Holland and reckons Robben, who has made a startling impact at Stamford Bridge since recovering from injury, can go on to become an all-time great.

Robben has scored four goals in as many games for Jose Mourinho’s side and he also scored one and made one for Holland in their 3-0 World Cup qualifying win over Andorra last night.

Van Basten said: “I am very pleased that Arjen has had such a big reception in England and he has looked very special in the four games for Chelsea.

“He has scored and made a lot of goals and made a big impression on the Premiership. It’s possible that he can become the best player in the world.”