Clarke joins Bradford City for third time on one-year deal

The Irishman has signed a one-year deal to be reunited with Stuart McCall and Kenny Black.

Clarke scored 25 goals in 144 appearances in his first three years at the club before returning in January 2019 for four months – as the Bantams crashed to relegation from League One.

Clarke, who enjoyed a successful spell at Grimsby last season, is desperate to bring back the good times.

He said: “I am absolutely over the moon to be back here again. I was devastated to leave last time and to get the chance to return is unbelievable.

Billy Clarke in action during his last spell with City in the 2018-2019 season

“The time I had with Stuart McCall and Kenny Black was brilliant and we were close to achieving big things. It was the most enjoyable season of my career to date.

“I am determined to right the wrongs and bring my experience and quality back. Hopefully, we can enjoy a really successful season.”

Clarke was a key part of McCall’s squad that reached Wembley in the League One play-offs in 2017. The City boss believes there is “unfinished business” for the 32-year-old.

McCall added: "Billy is a player Kenny and I obviously know very well, and one who knows this football club inside out.

"He was part of a team we had in our previous spell here which came so close being successful, so he probably feels there is a little bit of unfinished business.

The time I had with Stuart McCall and Kenny Black was brilliant and we were close to achieving big things. It was the most enjoyable season of my career to date.

"I am naturally aware his second spell was not as memorable, but the reason for bringing Billy back is based not only on his quality and character, but also on his performances for a Grimsby side which was resurgent after he joined them last season.

"He fits into our mentality of setting high standards, both in matches and on the training ground, and has the strong belief and positive mindset we want to see in all of our players."