Sunderland cashed in on Jack Clarke during the summer, with Ipswich Town the team to finally prise him away from Wearside. So far though, it’s been a tough run for the 23-year-old in the Premier League.
Jack Clarke is having a second bite at the Premier League, this time with Ipswich Town. And it’s much different to when he was a teenager trying to break into a Spurs side with the likes of Gareth Bale in the ranks.
Last time round, Clarke scored 15 Championship goals and earned himself a £20million move from Sunderland to Ipswich Town. And he thoroughly deserved the move. But for Clarke, the Premier League with Ipswich has so far been a very tough gig.
Ipswich Town fans have criticised Clarke’s performances, with the winger yet to score in 15 Premier League games for the Tractor Boys who currently sit in the relegation zone.
Reporter says Jack Clarke has some ‘annoying’ habits at Ipswich Town
Eastern Daily Press have re-assessed each of Ipswich Town’s summer signings so far, with Clarke receiving a quite damning review from reporter Mark Heath, who’s shared his frustrations at the former Sunderland hero.
He says that Clarke has an ‘annoying tendency of overplaying or not making the simple pass when it’s on’, adding that he looks too ‘lightweight’ for the Premier League right now.
Heath wrote: “Clarke was the summer signing I was most excited by, all silky skills, baggy shorts and floppy hair.
“But it feels like he’s yet to really establish himself and has largely been used as a sub – just four of his 15 league appearances have been from the start.
“He is undoubtedly skilful and tricky, but has an annoying tendency of overplaying or not making the simple pass when it’s on. He also looks a bit lightweight against the super athletes of the top tier.
“He’s only 23 though, and has plenty of time to make his mark. He took the corner which Jack Taylor headed home for that dramatic late winner at Wolves, one of his two assists so far. I just want to see a bit more from him.”
Jack Clarke chances of Sunderland return revealed
Amid Clarke’s struggles, many Sunderland fans on social media have speculated whether he might return to the Stadium of Light on loan during this January transfer window.
But transfer expert Graeme Bailey says Clarke won’t be returning to Sunderland anytime soon, and that Ipswich Town still have full faith in the winger.
He remains an investment for the club. He’s showed some glimpses of his full ability in the Premier League, and in time, he’ll hopefully come good. Sunderland fans will watch eagerly to see him score the goals that he did for the Black Cats.