Sunderland fans are keeping a close eye on former player Jack Clarke and his season at Ipswich Town, which so far hasn’t gone to plan.
Jack Clarke remains a big talking point among Sunderland fans. And ahead of the January transfer window opening, there’s been a bit of talk about his future.
Ipswich Town signed Clarke in a £20million deal during the summer but the former Sunderland favourite has failed to live up to expectations, with no goals and two assists in 15 Premier League outings so far this season.
At times this year, Ipswich Town fans have criticised Clarke for his performances. It’s led to online speculation that Clarke could be loaned out in January and that Sunderland may well be keen on re-signing their former star man.
The idea has certainly become a talking point among Sunderland fans on social media. So far, there’s been no official link, but Sunderland AFC News has quizzed transfer expert Graeme Bailey on the possibility of Clarke returning to the Stadium of Light.
Graeme Bailey dissects possible Jack Clarke return to Sunderland
Speaking to Sunderland AFC News, Bailey has suggested that Ipswich Town still have big hopes for the 24-year-old at Portman Road.
And Bailey has confirmed that Ipswich currently have on plans to send Clarke out on loan during the January transfer window, adding that the player himself doesn’t want to leave the club anytime soon.
Bailey said: “He hasn’t started much, but he has over a dozen Premier League appearances, Ipswich like him a lot – he won’t be going out on-loan from what I am told, I don’t believe the player wants to go.”
- READ MORE: Who is Harvey Vale? Get to know the Chelsea playmaker linked with Sunderland move in January
Pundit explains why Jack Clarke won’t regret leaving Sunderland for Ipswich Town
Clarke had his share of suitors last summer. Ipswich got the deal done, but in hindsight, a more to a more established Premier League team might have brought more out of Clarke, who we know is a capable player.
Speaking earlier in the season, pundit and former Sunderland man Kieron Brady explained why Clarke won’t regret his move to Ipswich Town.
Brady said: “A lot of players will spend a considerable part of their footballing career, looking for what you might regard as ‘that contract’.
“I’ve got no doubt that Ipswich given they’re now in the Premier League, were able to offer him a contract that Sunderland were either unable to, or unwilling to.”
For Clarke, he now has the security of a five-year contract at Ipswich Town. Even if they’re relegated this season, the club surely gives Clarke more than his share of games to try and fulfil his potential.