Clarkes Dreams Come True

The 25yr old left-back from Wicklow had played 259 games and scored 10 goals during his nine years at Stoke. He also made two senior international appearances for Ireland against Nigeria and Jamaica in last year's Unity Cup.

Clarke, who has signed a four-year contract, said, "I had some great times at Stoke, but it's been a dream of mine for some time now to play in the Premier League and I'm delighted that West Ham have given me that chance,"

"This is a good time for me to be making the step up to the Premier League and hopefully I can show that I can play at the highest level," he added.

This move to the Premiership may also enhance Clarke’s international chances with Ireland in need of a quality left-back.