Leon Clarke to leave Swindon Town after Di Canio spat

Swindon Town chairman Jeremy Wray has confirmed striker Leon Clarke will leave the club on loan following a clash with manager Paolo di Canio.

The 26-year-old, who only joined the Robins 12 days ago, ended up in a scuffle with Di Canio after the Carling Cup defeat by Southampton on Tuesday.

"It's in the best interests of everyone is if we find Leon another club to go to," Wray told BBC Wiltshire.

Clarke will have to wait seven days for the loan window to open.

Wray revealed he had not yet spoken to Clarke in person, but had discussed the situation with the player's agent and Di Canio.

He continued: "The practical solution is to find a loan for him as soon as possible. There's lots of issues that haven't been resolved.

"At this stage I've got to do what's best for the club. I want a happy and focused club and I don't want anything that undermines that in any way.

"Paolo has built a close-knit group and I want that to carry forward. From that point of view you've got to look at the good of the whole team rather than the individual. this is the best way forward.

"We've come up with this solution and I'm happy with that."

Clarke signed a two-year deal at Swindon on 19 August following his release from QPR.

He has featured in two League Two games and two Carling Cup matches but has yet to make the scoresheet.