Defender, Ciaran Clark has departed Newcastle United to join Sheffield United on a season-long loan for 2022-23 season.
Clark began his career within Aston Villa’s youth academy which led to his senior debut in August 2009, with the Republic of Ireland international eventually having scored 10 goals in 159 appearances across seven seasons prior to a switch to Newcastle in August 2016 for £5m.
Having played an important role in the Magpies’ promotion-clinching 2016-17 Championship season, Clark ultimately struggled for consistency amidst injuries in following seasons as he scored 11 goals in 127 appearances – of which 78 appearances came in the Premier League.
Having enjoyed a semi-regular role under Rafael Benitez and Steve Bruce when fit, Clark struggled to break through into Eddie Howe’s plans with just four appearances under the ex Bournemouth manager – of which his last appearance came in late January in a 1-0 win at Leeds United
Howe consequently has greenlit a loan move for Clark this season who is “delighted” to join Sheffield Utd on a season-long loan following conversations with manager – Paul Heckingbottom about playing style, teammates and the Blades’ promotion ambition.
Addressing his personal ambitions for the season at Bramall Lane, Clark said: “I’m looking forward to playing regularly, fitting into the style of play and formation, we know the Championship is tough but with a huge togetherness and a big effort by everyone, the squad has the quality to get out of the league.
“I saw how close the club went last season and the aim now is to get promoted.”
Heckingbottom added that Clark will bring “relevant experience” after having won promotion from the Championship with Newcastle in 2016-17 season.
On what he is expecting from Clark this season, Heckingbottom added: “We’ll put big demands on him with regards to the way we train and what we want from him, but I’m sure he is looking forward to it.”
Heckingbottom is also happy with Utd’s transfer business as he continued: “We have now got good strength, experience and qualities in defensive areas, we are covered in all positions across the back line and that’s important because it is going to be a tough season, particularly with the schedule at the start of the campaign.”
Clark could make his Sheffield Utd debut away at Watford in the first Monday Night Football clash of 2022-23 season on 1 August live on Sky Sports, with kick-off at Vicarage Road set for 8pm BST.
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