NATHAN CLARKE today hailed the contribution of brother Tom and backed him to help Town finish the season on a high.
After starting the last eight matches under Lee Clark, Tom has underlined his value in both defence and midfield.
Elder brother Nathan says the 21-year-old deserves the shirt and his new contract.
“It’s great to have him back in the team,” said Nathan. “Tom has played in a few different positions but I think he’s feeling settled in midfield.
“Against Carlisle he was asked to do some specific jobs and he did them very well.”
Tom and Nathan are ready to face Chris Hutchings’ Walsall on Saturday as Town wait for a fitness update on wideman Anthony Pilkington (groin).
“Tom has been through a lot injury wise and was unable to get in the team, so I’m very pleased for him now, especially as he was out of favour under the previous manager and pushed out on loan to Bradford.
“Speaking to people over there he did really well for them and that’s helped his confidence, which is now showing with Town.
“It’s an opportunity he needs to take and to make a name for himself in these last few games, but it shows that if you are patient you can force your way back in. That’s a lesson to all of us at the club.”
