Durham Women have confirmed the signing of 52-cap England international Jess Clarke.
The versatile forward brings a wealth of quality and experience to the side having spent all of her career at the top end of the game.
A pacy wide player, Clarke began her career with Leeds Carnegie in her hometown, before joining Lincoln for the start of the Women’s Super League era in 2010.
She stayed with the side as they transitioned to Notts County and scored 24 times in 82 appearances for the club.
A move to Liverpool then followed with Clarke spending four years on Merseyside, before joining Sheffield United last summer – where she scored against Durham last season.
The 33-year-old, who can play either out wide or centrally, has 52 caps for England and scored 11 times while representing the Lionesses. She has also featured at the FIFA Women’s World Cup and in UEFA European Championships.
And now she’s ready to make her mark at Durham ahead of the 2022/23 season.
“I’m excited to join the journey and see where it takes us,” she said.
“At the end of last season I had a lot of time to think and towards the back end of last season I felt like I was training well and my body felt great.
“I sat down and spoke with Lee – discussing me as a player, an individual and the environment – and we both came to the conclusion that this environment was perfect for me.
“The opportunity to play full-time football again was fantastic.”
Lee Sanders added: “After speaking to Jess, she was so passionate about football and wanting to play and get back to a full-time environment.
“It was quickly apparent that she was a player that we really wanted to sign.
“She’s got a wealth of experience across the frontline and has worked with some wonderful players and strikers in her career so far, and that can only help and add value to the team.
“I’m really excited that we can sign a player of that calibre.”
With thanks to Durham WFC
