TOM CLARKE rejoined the Town squad today having scored his first international goal.
The 17-year-old defender netted the opener last night as England Under 19s beat Belgium 3-2 at Darlington.
Clarke scored with a near-post header on five minutes and, while he was taken off at half time as one of six substitutions, it was a perfect tonic for Town's trip to Oldham on Saturday.
Brother Nathan was there in a crowd of 3,123 to see it, as was Academy manager Gerry Murphy, who said:
"Tom had a good, solid game and did well.
"He gave a good account of himself in top company and he was thrilled with the goal.
"The only reason he came off was because England wanted to use most of the squad."
Manager Peter Jackson, who watched the Reserves win 2-0 at Bradford with goals from Junior Mendes and Adnan Ahmed, added: "It's great to hear Tom did well and scored. That should give him a massive lift for the season."
Meanwhile, England's senior side are expected to recall Michael Owen for tonight's World Cup qualifier against Northern Ireland at Windsor Park in Belfast (7.45).
It could prompt a change in formation as England look to take a big step towards next year's finals in Germany.
* Full preview - page 59.
