Jack Clarke opens up on time at Tottenham and leaving Spurs to join Sunderland

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Jack Clarke has told The Echo that he found it “difficult” at Tottenham and was delighted to leave Spurs this summer on a permanent basis to join Sunderland – where he has made an electric start, after a loan stint during the 21-22 term.

Clarke, 21, joined Sunderland on loan from Tottenham in January. Playing 20 times in all competitions, he did okay. Showing glimpses of quality, he scored one and created four. He helped the Black Cats gain promotion to the top tier.

Alex Neil chose to sign him permanently from Tottenham. Alasdair Gold has reported that while Clarke’s permanent move will be an initial low fee, add-ons could take it to £10million. He has made a superb start to the 2022-23 season.

Despite the change in manager, with Neil departing and replaced by Tony Mowbray, Clarke continued his superb form on the weekend. In seven games, he has had a hand in five goals – scoring two goals and laying on three assists.

Last time out, he scored one and created the other two as Sunderland beat Rotherham 3-0. He is likely to start against rivals Middlesbrough on Monday. Clarke spoke about his time at Tottenham, and the decision to join Sunderland.

“It was a difficult one really,” Clarke said, on his Tottenham exit. “Looking back on it it never really materialised in the way I wanted it to or into anything, but I wouldn’t say I’d do anything differently.

“I still took the opportunity, I tried my best when I was there and obviously it wasn’t meant to be. I’m glad I made the switch when I did and I’m enjoying being here now. Now it’s an opportunity for me to show what I did learn.”

Clarke: Tottenham ‘difficult’ but delighted to join Sunderland

It seems as if it will be a brilliant move for all parties. Sunderland have got themselves a young player with huge potential. He is already producing the numbers in the Championship – with five goals and assists in seven games.

Sunderland have also got Clarke for an initially low fee, but even if the add-ons are paid – Clarke is showing the quality expected of a player that might cost £10million. Tottenham will get their money back. A brilliant deal for Spurs.