I suppose this is the best ringing endorsement that the manager made the right call.
A lot of talk in the buildup to the game against Millwall surrounded who was going to play at centre-back; captain Harlee Dean after his comeback from suspension, or on loan defender Jake Clarke-Slater who had been playing in the skipper’s absence.
In the end boss Pep Clotet went with the latter and the decision paid off, as the defender scored the equaliser during the 1-1 draw on the weekend. So not only was Clotet’s decision justified by him getting on the scoresheet, but there was one other accolade that came the defender’s way, as he was named in the EFL Team of the Week.
In light of his award, Blues journalist Brian Dick asked fans about their impressions of Clarke-Salter so far this season, and the fans were full of praise for him.
Very impressed, seems confident on the ball, positioning is good and scored on Saturday. Just see how him and Dean get on on Saturday.
— richard p (@rpercy39) December 3, 2019
Proven me wrong big time
— Travis (@Tster48) December 3, 2019
Looked strong last few games. His position to lose at the minute.
— ANDY (@ANDYBCFC84) December 3, 2019
Wasn’t convinced at first but since getting his chance has looked like a solid already established first teamer arguably been our best centre half recently
— Listen to Novacubs new song November out now!!! (@RespectTheAlda) December 3, 2019
Deservedly gets in TOTW for me has been solid well done sir 👍💙
— Alan Elwell (@elwell_alan) December 3, 2019
Whenever I’d seen him play in previous seasons, he always looked a weak link. However, terrific character from him to come in after very little game time and making that position look his own.
— Conor Keane (@conorkeane21) December 3, 2019
Has been top class. Stood up to every test and his pace, composure and distribution from the back is something we’ve not had for a long long time
— Adam Nicholas (@AdamNicholas83) December 3, 2019
Wasn’t sure to begin with, but he’s played very well over the last couple of weeks. Looks like he’s going to have a run in the side now too so let’s hope the good form continues! It’s at the other end of the pitch where we’re struggling, we desperately need a goal scorer!
— Michael Stevens (@mikestevens91) December 3, 2019
Done well, he trusts in his own ability as well.
— George (@GeoSewell) December 3, 2019
It's good to have a natural left footed CB gives good balance to the side. I'm sure Harlee's performances will improve going forward now he is playing on the right side.
— Ian Geraghty (@Ian_Geraghty) December 3, 2019
Would you make Clarke-Salter's deal permanent?
Yes
No
If he keeps this up, perhaps we can think about turning that loan deal into a permanent one at the end of the campaign.