'Several clubs were interested,' Brighton defender seals his perfect loan move

Brighton and Hove Albion continue to fine tune their playing squad as they prepare for the Premier League season opener against Chelsea on September 14
By Derren Howard
Published 26th Aug 2020, 11:21 BST
Updated 26th Aug 2020, 11:52 BST
Brighton and Hove AlbionBrighton and Hove Albion
Brighton and Hove Albion

Matt Clarke has re-joined Sky Bet Championship side Derby County on loan for the upcoming 2020/21 campaign.

The 23-year-old completed a successful season-long loan with the Rams in July, capping an excellent campaign by winning the Player of the Season award at Pride Park.

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The former Portsmouth and Ipswich Town defender joined Albion last summer, and will spend the forthcoming season with Phillip Cocu’s side.

Brighton defender Matt Clarke has returned on loan to Derby CountyBrighton defender Matt Clarke has returned on loan to Derby County
Brighton defender Matt Clarke has returned on loan to Derby County

Technical director Dan Ashworth said, “Matt was a standout player in the Championship last season and this led to us receiving interest from several clubs for the new campaign.

“We will keep a close eye as Matt looks to build on the excellent progress he made at Derby last season and we wish him well.”

Clarke is the second member of the Albion squad to depart in the last two days. Yesterday right-back Martin Montoya agreed his permanent move to La Liga outft Real Betis for an undisclosed fee.

Shane Duffy continues to be linked with a transfer to either West Ham or Celtic, while newly-promoted West Brom are keen to take Brighton No 2 goalkeeper David Button in a £1m deal.

Related topics:BrightonPremier LeagueDerby CountyChelseaAlbion