First signing Clarke acts as safety net

RUSSELL Slade knew exactly what he was getting when he made Nathan Clarke his first signing as City manager.

With Sam Ricketts suffering an injury that cut short his playing career, the incoming manager identified the lack of experience in defence as an urgent issue which needed addressing.

Clarke was Slade’s captain at Leyton Orient and the central defender’s no-nonsense style of play is exactly what the doctor ordered.

The man-mountain is one of the first names on the teamsheet, and his leadership skills can be seen on and off the field.

The 33-year-old defender acts as the eyes and ears of the team, and can often be heard urging his team-mates to clear the ball or bring it down and play.

His presence in the back four acts as a safety net, and boosts the confidence of the players around him – so much so that Jordan Turnbull has looked like a new man since the arrival of Clarke at the Ricoh Arena.

Fast becoming a fans’ favourite, his passion for the game resonates with City supporters along with his desire to win and his overall attitude as a professional.

Clarke’s reaction following the crucial league win against Gillingham last weekend showed a man who has felt the pain of the dismal run of results.

Bent over in exhaustion, Clarke let out an almighty wail at the full time whistle, before embracing Reice Charles-Cook as if the pair had just won the FA Cup.

It was show of relief that City had finally recorded those longawaited three points, as well as a demonstration of his commitment to the cause.

If Coventry City are to do the near impossible and avoid the drop this season, Nathan Clarke will be an integral part of the survival bid.

Keep him fit and firing, and we have a real chance of claiming points in this division.