Leeds United’s Championship rivals have signed an ex-Newcastle United and Aston Villa player before of the Whites’ match.
One of Leeds United’s Championship rivals has bolstered its squad ahead of a league meeting with the Whites.
Stoke City, Leeds United’s Championship opponents, have signed ex-Newcastle United and Aston Villa defender Ciaran Clark on a one-year contract until the end of the 2023-24 season. The Whites will play their second game following the international break at the bet365 Stadium later this month.
On Saturday, October 21, they travel to Norwich City before visiting Stoke on Wednesday, October 25. Clark is a Republic of Ireland international who joined Stoke after being released by Newcastle in the summer when his contract at St James’ Park expired. He has made almost 200 Premier League games and helped Sheffield United achieve promotion from the Championship last season during a loan stay.
He was released by Newcastle at the end of the season after making 129 appearances in all competitions for the club. He appeared in 159 games for Villa, scoring 10 goals.
“I’ve missed the feeling of being in the dressing room and preparing week-to-week for Saturdays,” the 34-year-old said of his transfer to Stoke.
“I worked hard during pre-season and have kept myself in good shape since, so I’m excited to get out there with the lads over the next couple of weeks, because the feeling of those sessions is something you can’t replicate on your own.” With the talent we have, I feel we can have a successful season if we can find some consistency.
Clark’s availability to face Leeds is unknown as he works to regain match fitness after being without a club since the beginning of June. “Ciaran’s vast experience and understanding of how to be successful in the Championship make him a valuable addition to our squad,” said Stoke City technical director Ricky Martin.
“He provides us with the defensive cover we require, but he’s also a left-footed central defender, which is a valuable commodity in and of itself, as well as having the pedigree and background to be a leader and cultural architect within our group.” Ciaran has two weeks to practice and acclimate before our next round of Championship games, and we’ll do everything we can to get him up to speed as fast and effectively as possible.”
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