With the current suspension of football, and the anniversary of Oxford United’s 2010 promotion win over York City approaching, we caught up with former U’s goalkeeper Ryan Clarke for a little question and answer session.
The current Bath City goalkeeper spent six years at the club after joining for Salisbury City in 2009 and went on to make over 250 appearances for the U’s.
During his time at Oxford, Clarke won promotion from the Conference in 2010 and became an integral part of the team for a number of years, before reuniting with Chris Wilder at Northampton Town after he was “no longer required” at Oxford.
Born in Bristol, and of course, you played for Rovers, did you grow up as a red or a blue?
I grew up as a Rovers fan but was with Bristol city until I was 15-years-old.
How did you feel when signing for a club like Oxford United?
I felt a bit overwhelmed but very proud to be signing for such a big club, and just wanted to enjoy every minute.
What was it like to play at Wembley in the 2010 Conference playoff final?
Playing at Wembley was daunting in the circumstances. It was hard to take in the atmosphere until the end. It’s hard to remember any of the game because of the amount riding on it.
Obviously, there was an unfortunate mistake on your part which led to York City reducing the deficit to 2-1 before the break. What were you thinking at that time?
I just wanted someone to wake me up as I thought it was all a bad dream. It was a simple lack of concentration at the time.
What was your best memory at Oxford?
My best memory was the final. Also, a penalty save in the last minute at home to Port Vale. (Oxford won 2-1)
What was your worst memory at Oxford?
Getting told by Michael Appleton that I was no longer required.
How did you feel when you left Oxford?
Gutted. I actually felt I done well under Appleton when I came into the team after injury when he was under a bit of pressure quite early on.
You joined Northampton Town and was obviously reunited with Chris Wilder. Was that a primary reason why you joined the Cobblers?
Yes, it was at the time. I played my best football under him and respected him as a manager and a man.
You struggled for game time while at Northampton and AFC Wimbledon. Do you think dropping back into non-league with Eastleigh was the right decision?
I struggled to deal with not playing at Northampton, and just never got going at Wimbledon and I’m not sure why. I hadn’t enjoyed my football for some time due to not playing so I just wanted to get back to enjoying it closer to home, so Eastleigh fitted the bill at a decent level still.
Who was the best manager of your career and why?
Chris Wilder – his man-management of players was very good and always made sure we had a great team spirit.
Who was the best player you played against and why?
Harry Maguire when we played Sheffield United (FA Cup third round, 3-0 defeat in 2013). He just made it look so easy.
What was the best game you have played in and why?
The best game I had was against Southend on Sky Sports, but we lost.
The game I enjoyed the most was Swindon at home in the league when we won 2-0 with 10 men (2012).
What was the worst game you have played in and why?
Bradford away, 2010. We lost 5-0 I think.
You have openly spoken about your own issues with mental health. Is there any advice you could give to any other young players in the game that could be in the same positions as you?
Just to make sure you have something to fall back on as one of the hardest things can be dealing with not playing when your injured, or it all comes to an end. Definitely talk about how you feel and don’t be afraid to.
When, or if, the season resumes, do you believe Oxford have what it takes to achieve promotion from League One?
Yes, without a doubt and I hope they do.
And finally, how are you enjoying your time at Bath City, and do you think it will be your final club?
I’m loving playing for Bath. It’s a club with great character and tradition. I’m just enjoying every week with a great bunch of lads.
