'I'm getting goosebumps' - Clarke on Premier League and going under the knife

Ipswich Town star Harry Clarke says he's recovering well from having an operation on both his legs - and can't wait to tackle the Premier League.

The popular fist-pumping right-back went under the knife back in May in a bid to resolve the Achilles issues which have been hampering him.

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And the 23-year-old, who made 39 appearances last season, says he's feeling the difference already.

“It was a double plantaris removal," he explained to TownTV. "There’s a tendon that runs alongside your Achilles and that was essentially deteriorating my Achilles for the last two years.

“So I’ve had both of them taken out and it went really well – they were happy with it.

“It feels a lot better now and I’m back at the gym now and should hopefully be back on the pitch, which is nice.”

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Clarke was housebound for almost three weeks following surgery, but said it will all be worth it if it eases the pain from the issue.

Harry Clarke fist-pumps to celebrate another Town win (Image: Steve Waller)
“A little bit of discomfort is playing it down!" he laughed. "It’s been tough playing with it but even if this gets rid of 50% of the pain that will make a huge difference.”

The swashbuckling full-back will be competing with new signing Ben Johnson and potentially Axel Tuanzebe - who finished last season as the starting right back - for a spot in the first XI this summer.

And he says he can't wait to get stuck into the Premier League, with Town hosting Liverpool first on August 17, live on TNT Sports, before travelling to four-time reigning champions Manchester City the following week.

“The first two fixtures are the games you play football for, to be involved in them," he enthused.

“To have those two to start is a welcome to the Premier League sort of thing.

“I absolutely cannot wait, I’m so buzzing we’ve got the first home game – I dread to think what the atmosphere will be like for that one, I’m getting goosebumps thinking about it!

“What an exciting time.”

Harry Clarke says he can't wait to welcome Liverpool on August 17 (Image: PA)
That first home game will be held at a new-look Portman Road, with a lot of work being done at Town's famous old ground this summer to meet Premier League requirements.

And Clarke said: “There’s a lot of work going on, which is credit to what we’ve done, and it’s nice to see the club investing in the stadium.

“It’s going to look incredible when it’s all done. I can’t wait for the fans to see it.”