Newly-promoted Sunderland AFC have bolstered their squad ahead of their Sky Bet Championship return with the permanent signing of Jack Clarke from Tottenham Hotspur.
The 21-year-old, who has agreed a four-year deal, joined the Black Cats on loan in January and played an integral role in the club’s promotion via the Play-Offs, directly contributing to five goals in 20 appearances.
Clarke started his career at Leeds United before earning a big money switch to Spurs three seasons ago, but struggled to establish himself at the North London club, making just four first-team appearances.
The talented winger has featured 43 times in the second tier for Leeds, QPR and Stoke City and will now return to Wearside for Sunderland’s first Championship campaign in four years.
Clarke told the club website: “I’m absolutely delighted to be back because I really enjoyed my time here last season. It felt right to return and after winning promotion to the Championship last season, I’m excited to play my part in the next step of our journey.
“We have a good balance in the squad and a great bond in the dressing room, so I believe we can continue to progress as a team and enjoy another successful season.”
Alex Neil added: “Jack is a player with huge potential. We had him last season and I think he grew stronger and stronger as the season went on, but the most important thing for him is that he’s now our player.
“He has obviously got quality, but what he needed to do was find a home and we have managed to provide that. Jack enjoys it here and for us, we are pleased to have the deal across the line as it adds another attacking option.”
