Latics reward striker Clarke-Harris with new deal

Jonson Clarke-Harris, in action against Swindon

JONSON Clarke-Harris has signed an 18-month extension to his contract.

Manager Lee Johnson revealed the 19-year-old striker’s improvement this season had led to talks over keeping him at Boundary Park long-term.

“He has learned a lot this season and I think next year will be the one where it really clicks for him,” said Johnson.

“Technically, he’s getting better all the time. His right foot is better and we do a lot of work with him on that. He is not quite confident yet to try it out in a match - you have to remember how young he is; everybody forgets, because he is so big.”

Clarke-Harris arrived at Boundary Park after an already-nomadic professional career, with time at Coventry City, Peterborough, Southend and Bury.

It was a gamble on the part of Johnson when he made Clarke-Harris the first permanent signing of his reign last June, coming in on a 12-month contract with an option for a further year.

After a promising pre-season, it took time for the young striker to find his feet.

Tomorrow, though, he may have to play second fiddle to new man Jon Stead when it comes to partnering Danny Philliskirk up front.

James Tarkowski is expected to tie up an emergency loan return from Brentford. To be eligible for the Bristol game, the deal needs to be wrapped up by noon tomorrow.

Genseric Kusunga could sneak onto the bench with his hamstring strain not as severe as feared.



JAMES Wesolowski is set to hit the century mark against Bristol City.

The combative midfield man is on 99 appearances.

Other than Kirk Millar, Weso is the longest-serving current member of the first-team squad.