Midfielder Ryan Clarke may finally be about to get the recognition he so richly deserves. Clarke, 27, has been a key part of Inglewood United’s artillery since joining the club five years ago, his creativity and pace down the right keeping opposition teams on high alert. His sensational form across 2014 has been rewarded with a spot in the preliminary State squad to play Perth Glory next week and, beyond that, trials with the A-League club upon completion of his National Premier Leagues commitments.

Clarke came close to landing a professional deal at Scottish club Greenock Morton late last year and is determined to go one step further next month. “I’ll start training with Glory once the season has been completed and, if all goes well, I’ll secure a spot in the Glory squad,” said Clarke, who gained his State team debut two years ago against Glory. “It’s an honour to play for the State. To have your achievements recognised is always a good compliment, it’s a great chance for players who have played well all year to get some exposure.”

This season may have been a personal success for Clarke but the same cannot be said for Inglewood who, with three games to play, languish fourth from bottom and well outside their goal of finals football. “Our season has been embarrassing,” Clarke stated. “On paper we had a top two team when the season started but our failure to take advantage after dominating teams has let us down. Unfortunately, Normo (Graham Normanton), who is one of the best coaches I have played under, took the fall when it was us – the players – that couldn’t deliver.”

Inglewood’s players will be going all out to restore a bit of pride to themselves, and their season, when they journey to Subiaco AFC on Saturday. “It won’t be an easy game but we know we are a much better team than Subiaco and they are going to feel the brunt of our frustration,” asserted Clarke, who is positive about next winter. “Despite our poor season the boys have remained strong and stayed together, that’s a great show of character and a big positive for the future … I’ve no doubt that with a few more players Inglewood will be there or thereabouts next year.”

There has been a lot of change at Inglewood during the last five years, change which Clarke says has positioned the club well for future success. “Inglewood is a great club,” he said. “We have amazing facilities and the people behind the club are committed to seeing Inglewood become a power in the local league. Siggy and Karl Kramer have left a great foundation for the new committee to build for a stronger future. It’s now the job of the on-field team to start delivering the results – and trophies – the club deserves.”