Newcastle United have confirmed that defender Ciaran Clark will leave the club this summer after coming to the end of his contract.
Clark was on loan with Sheffield United last term and played a bit-part role for the Blades as they won promotion to the Premier League.
After initially starting as the number one choice at left centre-back, a number of injuries and then the form of Jack Robinson meant Clark couldn’t force his way back into proceedings.
And with his contract now up at Newcastle, the Magpies have confirmed that Clark is among the players who will be departing St James’ Park this summer.
Could Sheffield United consider Ciaran Clark return?
The big question when it comes to the Irishman is can he maintain fitness to become a key player for United. Based on last season, the answer right now would appear to be no.
Clark is clearly a good defender and an experienced international player. Of course, that experience could be crucial for United but Paul Heckingbottom is going to need players who will be available regularly.
On a free, and on a lower wage, Clark might well be someone Heckingbottom goes back to.
However, proving that fitness over the summer and being able to display that he is over all his injuries is going to be the big issue for Clark.
Further, Prince Abdullah has spoken of the need to sign younger players permanently. That could scupper any chances of a return for the Irishman.
Sheff U News View: One to monitor
Had Ciaran Clark played the entire season and come out of as one of our key players, then there’d be more of an argument to bring him back.
But as it stands, he’s probably a player we just keep on the ‘keep an eye on’ list. There will be others out there we can sign but if the window drags on and we don’t get certain players in, then Clark is one we could turn towards.
For now, though, it’s probably best that we simply monitor his situation and fitness. Diving into offering him a contract now would come with an element of risk we probably can’t afford to take.