21. Ciaran Clark

Position: Centre Back Date of Birth: 26th September 1989 Place of Birth: London, England Caps: 2* Height: 188cm

Despite growing up in the Capital Ciaran Clark came through the academy at Aston Villa after joining the club at just 11. He captained both the u-18 side to the 2007–08 Premier Academy League title and the reserves to the Premier Reserve League South title.

Despite being named as a substitute in Villa’s 2008–09 UEFA Cup match away at CSKA Moscow, he was an unused substitute. His first team debut come one season later, 30th August 2009, in a 2-0 win over Fulham he partnered Carlos Cuéllar in defence. He received praises from all around including being named in the BBC’s Garth Crooks team of the week. Despite spending most of the season on the substitute bench he has been tipped for big things in the future, even briefly being linked with a move to Manchester United.

It was the 2010-11 season that Ciaran began to make a real name for himself managing 4 goals in 21 appearances. As the season went on Clark was used as a centre back, left full back and a defensive midfielder. He also scored a 91st minute equaliser against Chelsea in a 3-3 game, giving Villa a share of the points.

Despite representing England at all levels from u17 to u20′s he opted to play for the Republic of Ireland as he qualified through his Irish parents. He made his debut on the 8th February 2011 against Wales at the Aviva Stadium.

Honours
Premier Academy League: Winner 07/08 (Aston Villa)
Peace Cup: Winner 2009 (Aston Villa)
Premier Reserve League: Winner 08/09, 09/10 (Aston Villa)

(*-as of 1st May 2011)