Clark declares for Ireland

ASTON VILLA defender Ciarán Clark has pledged his international future to the Republic of Ireland – to repay his mother and father for the support they have shown in him.

Clark, who played 78 minutes of last Saturday’s goalless draw with Chelsea, was born in London and has captained the England U18s.

But he has decided to commit to playing at senior level for Giovanni Trapattoni’s side as an act of faith for the backing he received from his Irish-born mum and dad.