Peter Clarke signed a three-year contract with Southend just three days ahead of the Championship season when he moved for an undisclosed fee from Blackpool.

The 24-year-old central defender was a real fans favourite at Bloomfield Road where he captained the side and was named their player of the year in the 2004/05 season.

Previously capped by the England under-21s, Clarke started his career as a trainee for Everton where he made 13 appearances for the Premiership outfit, as well as gaining experience with loans spells at Blackpool, Port Vale and Coventry.

He then returned to Blackpool in 2004 on a free transfer and over the course of two years made 92 appearances for the club, as well as scoring eight goals.

During that time Clarke was also named captain and played a vital role in making sure Blackpool avoided relegation last season to remain in League One.

Clarke is recognised as a no-nonsense type of defender and a calming influence at the back, characteristics which helped to establish him in the Southend back four.