Joe Clarke earns formal Wrexham contract

Wrexham midfielder Joe Clarke has been given a formal contract after playing since August for his travelling expenses only.

Clarke, 23, joined the club on non-contract terms in July, having been released by Darlington in February.

Wrexham fans raised money to supplement Clarke's earnings, but he has now signed a deal until the end of the season.

"It was the best things that could have happened before Christmas," he said.

Clarke has not yet tasted defeat in 13 appearances for the Dragons so far this season, and marked his first start for the club with a goal in the 1-4 away win at Gateshead in October.

Manager Andy Morrell has been able to make him an offer of a new contract after the delay over the club's takeover by the Wrexham Supporters' Trust was finally completed at the beginning of December.

"Everyone needs security and it's great to know I'll be getting paid until the end of the season," Clarke told the Daily Post.

"I was told when the Supporters Trust takeover went through I would be offered a contract, and Andy Morrell was good to his word.

"He's been great in keeping me up to date on everything all the time."