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Nineteen year old Jonathan Clark had made just one substitute appearance
for Manchester United before his £50,000 transfer to Derby County in
September 1978. The twice capped Welsh schoolboy international
midfielder played seventeen times in County's 1978/79 First Division
campaign, a meagre goal tally of just forty-four condemning them to a
nineteenth place finish. With Colin Addison having replaced Tommy
Docherty as manager, Derby made a poor start to the following season.
Clark was called up to the first team in November 1979 and, although he
demonstrated plenty of neat touches, he was unable to secure a regular
place in the side.
As the "Rams" struggled for survival he made fourteen
appearances throughout the season, including three as a substitute. He
scored his only goal in a 2-1 home defeat by Coventry City. Just three
victories in their last nine matches saw County eventually releagated in
21st place, five points below the safety zone. Derby opened their
1980/81 Second Division campaign in better shape, an opening day
reversal at Cambridge City being remedied by straight wins against
Chelsea, Luton Town and Bolton Wanderers. Jonathan played in each of the
first five games, but temporarily lost his place as manager Colin
Addison shuffled his pack. Once restored he scored in a 3-1 return game
win at Chelsea and a 2-0 home defeat of West Ham United. Jonathan fell
out of favour prior to County's 1980 Christmas programme. He reappeared
as a substitute in a 2-2 draw with Wrexham on February 1981 - his last
game for the club.
He moved to Preston North End soon afterwards having,
in all competitions, made sixty-one appearances including five as a
substitute. Jonathan always gave of his best whilst at the Baseball
Ground. Those who were over critical of his performances probably forget
that he was in reality a young player learning the game in a generally
poor quality side. (Mike Cockayne)
He played for Hafod Brotherhood, Manchester United, Derby County, Preston North End, Bury, and Carlisle United.
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