SAM PARKIN may have turned his back on Chelsea and the Premiership, but the striker feels he can only improve as a player after agreeing a two-year deal at the County Ground.
The 21-year-old was due to complete his move to Wiltshire today, with the Football League expected to approve the deal after initial reservations, due to the club's current financial status.
Four goals in four starts have left the striker hungry for more goals and a productive two years in the famous red shirt.
After yesterday's 2-2 draw with Sporting Gijon, Parkin was in reflective yet positive mood.
He said: "The advice I was given was never to leave a big club unless you have to.
"I had loan spells at other clubs but there comes a time when you have to move on to help your career and to improve yourself."
Boss Andy King made his move for the player in the summer and after a week training in Southport, Parkin felt the 'vibes' were right.
He said: "I think you know when something feels right and after the few days training in Southport, where I got to know the lads, I was convinced this was the right place to come.
"It is a nice environment and it makes such a difference to feel welcome.
"I have a two-year deal. Over that time I hope to score goals for this club while improving as a player at the same time."
The fans are desperate for a goalscoring hero to cheer and while Parkin is sensible enough to avoid making rash promises or predictions, he feels a 4-3-3 system can only help him in his quest.
He said: "I think the system we are playing will give me a lot of opportunities.
"Confidence was a big factor last year. I just wasn't making chances and getting on the end of things.
"That has completely changed. At the moment I am going into games believing I can score goals. Hopefully I can get a fair few. One against Barnsley on Saturday would certainly be great."
Parkin is asking for patience from supporters but in return he is offering loyalty.
He said: "Swindon Town have given me an opportunity to show what I can do.
"Of course I'm ambitious but I haven't signed here as a quick stepping stone to get somewhere else.
"I want to be part of a successful Swindon Town side."
Manager Andy King has already made it clear that he thinks Parkin is a crucial piece of his 'jigsaw'.
His presence, pace and strength are assets which King feels are crucial to help Town to a far more productive season in front of goal this year.
He said: "The boy has scored goals in pre-season and I believe he will score more goals for this football club.
"It's not just goals but I think his quality of link-up play was there for all to see against Sporting Gijon."
Town's junior sides ended the English Riviera tournament on a high. The Under 11s were champions in their section, as were the Under 13s while the Under 12s were runners-up.
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