Ciaran Clark: Stoke City sign free-agent former Newcastle United centre-back

Ciaran Clark made 134 league appearances for Aston Villa and 114 for Newcastle

Ex-Aston Villa and Newcastle defender Ciaran Clark has joined Stoke City on a deal until the end of the season.

The 34-year-old was a free agent, having left St James' Park over the summer when his contract expired.

Clark spent last season on loan at Sheffield United, making 10 Championship appearances and scoring two goals as they won promotion.

"I've missed the feeling of being in the dressing room and preparing week-to-week for Saturdays," he said.

"With the quality of players we have, if we find some consistency, I believe we can go on and have a good season."

Stoke are 21st in the Championship table, just two points above the relegation places, after only three wins in their opening 11 league games.

They will return to action following the international break with back-to-back home matches against Sunderland and Leeds.

"Ciaran's vast experience and understanding of how to be successful in the Championship make him a valuable addition to our squad," said technical director Ricky Martin.

"Ciaran has two weeks to train and acclimatise prior to our next block of Championship fixtures and we'll be working hard to help him get up to speed as quickly and effectively as possible."

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