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Former Striker Clarke Announces Retirement - Ipswich Town News

Former Blues striker Billy Clarke has announced his retirement from football, aged 33.

Cork-born Clarke was a member of the Town U18s squad which won the FA Youth Cup in 2005, although missed both legs of the final having suffered a knee injury in the second leg of the semi-final victory over Tottenham.

He went on to make 23 senior starts and 33 sub appearances, scoring three times.

While with the Blues he spent time on loan at Colchester, Falkirk, Darlington, Northampton and Brentford before he joined Blackpool on a permanent basis on a free transfer in the summer of 2009 and was a member of their side which won promotion to the Premier League in 2009/10.

Injury prevented him from playing a part in the Seasiders’ top flight campaign and spells with Sheffield United (loan), Crawley, Bradford (three times), Charlton, Plymouth and Grimsby followed. He left the Bantams at the end of his latest stint at Valley Parade in July.

"It’s a wrap,” Clarke wrote on Twitter announcing his retirement. "Thank you to everyone who has helped me fulfil my dream. Thank you to all the clubs who have let me play for them.

"One chapter closes and another one begins. Can’t wait to start my coaching career. Thanks again, Billy.”

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