Former Woking man puts pen to paper
James Clarke becomes Bristol Rovers first new signing ahead of the 2015/16 campaign after agreeing a deal with the club this morning.Clarke began his career at Oxford United in 2007, transferring to neighbouring Oxford City in 2009 before joining Salisbury in August 2012 where he played an integral part in The Whites’ promotion to the Conference in his first season under now Rovers boss Darrell Clarke.
At the start of the 2014/15 the versatile defender signed for Woking where he made 31 appearances this season and was a vital component in that defence keeping 12 clean sheets during those games.
James was a free agent following the end of his contract with Woking and he told us that he turned down other offers to join Rovers.
“There were other offers on the table from both league clubs as well as conference sides but the opportunity to join Rovers was too big to turn down.
“It will be good to join up with Darrell again because he has already done a fantastic job at the club and it’s something I really want to be a part of moving forward.
To see James’ first full Rovers interview, please click here.
The defenders arrival is the first of the summer as Darrell Clarke bids to strengthen his side ahead of their return to the Football League and the Rovers boss told us he is happy with how things are going so far.
“I tried to sign James in the last window from Woking but the fee was too high so we are delighted to bring him in on a free transfer.
“He will add competition for places across the back four and is a welcome addition to the squad.”
Rovers Chairman Nick Higgs added "I would like to welcome James to the club and we wish him every success during his time with us.