SOUTHALL TIPS CLARKE FOR ENGLAND

The former Welsh international keeper is convinced that Clarke, signed on a free-transfer from Sheffield Wednesday, is even better than current England keeper prospect Ipswich‚ÇÖs Richard Wright.

"I believe that Matt is better than Richard Wright, although is probably behind Nigel Martyn," said Southall. "His technical ability is as good as anybody‚ÇÖs."

"There has not been a single game lost through one of his errors, which is unusual for a goal keeper."

One sticking point for Clarke could be that he plays for Bradford, a club which many believe will struggle in the Premiership this season, as many England players are selected from the bigger clubs in the country.

"I would like to think that an opportunity could come his way, but whether or not Bradford is a fashionable place for selection, I‚ÇÖm not so sure."

Southall also believes that good competition for the number one jersey at Valley Parade will also help Clarke maintain his recent excellent form.

"Matt is very fortunate to have Gary Walsh and Aidan Davison pushing him very hard. He knows if he has a couple of bad games he could end up watching from the sidelines.