The 30-year-old defender is in his 11th season at Linfield as he targets more silverware glory
From Gibson Cup glory to European agony, Matthew Clarke has experienced the full gamut of emotions at Linfield Football Club.
Andy actually said to me he was worried he wouldn't last the final after the league celebrations went on too long, and he said he wasn't getting any younger. Then he goes out and scores another hat-trick to win us the cup. That week was so special. Winning the league at Solitude then beating Coleraine in the Irish Cup final. Special memories.
Further up the pitch, you have the likes of Jamie Mulgrew and Stevie Lowry, and Andy Waterworth was unbelievable. He never got the credit he deserved. He did the donkey work and scored goals. And he scored important goals, and he delivered 25-30 a season. Best player you've played against in the Irish League? MC: I would say Gavin Whyte. I had a good few battles with Gavin. He has pace and was so direct, and he is flying across the water now. He has kicked on and is doing well. I enjoyed battling with him.
Favourite away day? MC: In the Irish League, I'd say Cliftonville and Coleraine. Two hard venues and tough games. And both games are usually sell-outs. Both sets of fans come out in full force to back their teams. You always get big crowds at those venues. Best manager you worked under? MC: Obviously David Healy because of the success we have had. He has always had a lot of belief in me. And look at the success we have had. We have had our moments, and me and him have had a few barneys now and again, but that's natural. He only demands the best and wants the best for his players, and from his players.
David was first class in the way he handled me back then. I was a young lad and I was really struggling with part-time football. I was thinking this isn't for me, and I even considered joining the army or something at that stage. David told me to stick it out and said it would be worth it. The one he scored against Cliftonville to help us win the league that year. He ran from inside his own half and buried it. And then he chips home the penalty to make it 3-1 and complete his hat-trick.
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