Jonathan (Jon) Parkin (born 30th December 1981 in Barnsley) is a professional footballer currently playing for Hull City.

Parkin, a striker, was a product of the Barnsley youth system and made his home town debut at the age of 17 against Hartlepool United. But after only 13 games for them, he fell out of favour and moved to Hartlepool on loan before making a more permanent move to Terry Dolan's York City.

Although not playing in his preferred position as a forward, Parkin managed to score 15 goals in 87 appearances from a more central midfield role. After nearly two years with the Minster Men, he moved to struggling Macclesfield Town and helped them avoid relegation to the Football Conference league in the 2003/2004 season. In the 2004/05 season, he scored 26 goals in all competitions for the Silkmen, which was a new club record.

At the start of the 2005/06 season, Parkin had an injury to his knee which stopped him from playing until October. But in the short space of time between October and January, he scored 9 times in 15 games. In January 2006, Hull City signed him from Macclesfield for an undisclosed six figure sum, and he made his Hull City debut with a goal against Crystal Palace.

Parkin has been ever-present in Peter Taylor's side since his move, which has seen him score 5 goals in 15 games. This, along with his towering position upfront, has helped Hull City move clear of the current relegation battle taking place in the Football League Championship.

His nickname amongst Hull City fans is "The Beast", and it come from his sheer size. His 6 foot 4 inches and 14 stone frame would not look out of place in Hull FC rugby team. "Feed The Beast and he will score!" is a joyful chant from the fans.

Living people | 1981 births | English footballers | Barnsley F.C. players | Hartlepool United F.C. players | York City F.C. players | Macclesfield Town F.C. players | Hull City A.F.C. players