OPINION
Rafa Benitez must block any possible exit route that may develop for Newcastle United defender Ciaran Clark after it emerged that West Bromwich Albion were reportedly pursuing him.
According to the Daily Mail, West Brom have made the 29-year-old centre-back a January transfer target with manager Darren Moore searching for a left-sided defender to help his side’s chances of promotion.
The newspaper go onto state that Clark could be tempted by a move that could see him get regular playing time after mainly being used as back-up to Benitez’s first-choice centre-backs this season.
However while Clark may not be a guaranteed name on the teamsheet this season, he has more than proved his worth in the outings he has made.
The 29-year-old stepped up to play in the recent 2-1 victory over Burnley when Benitez needed him to and not only got a rare goal but also successfully captained the side.
Clark also looked the real deal during his side’s 2-1 defeat to Wolves on Sunday as he made several important tackles that kept his side having a chance of earning a point right until the very end.
Also while the defender did struggle when deployed out-of-position as a left-back against Nottingham Forest earlier in the season, his efforts couldn’t be faltered in that match.
Clark showcases a desire to do what’s best for the Magpies even if it means him having to attempt to play in an unfamiliar role and a player of Clark’s character aren’t easy to come by.
While it’s true that Benitez has several quality central defenders to call upon, such as Federico Fernandez, Fabian Schar and Jamaal Lascelles, that doesn’t mean Clark is surplus to requirements.
It would be a mistake if the club let him join West Brom in January or any other team that comes a calling, as Clark does have a role to play at St James Park and he has proven that in his outings this season.
