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"They have gone on to another level since last year."
Parkes left Bloomfield Road in May 2009 after being in temporary charge of the club following Simon Grayson's departure to Leeds in December 2008.
"It was great to see the players that were there when I was there and how they've improved playing a new system," he said.
"They were well in charge of both games against Nottingham Forest in the semi-finals and it was a joy to watch."
Ten of the 11 players who started Blackpool's 4-3 win at the City Ground in the play-off semi-final second leg played under Parkes last season.
"To work with those players on a daily basis, they just got on with the job, and to see them beating a team like Forest who fancied their chances was just a wonderful night," he added.
Blackpool last played in the top flight in 1971.
Source: BBC Sport
Source: BBC Sport