Derby County Defender Clarke Signs Three-Year Contract After Relegation Fight

Derby County have announced the departure of forward Kemar Roofe following the end of the 2024/25 season, with the 32-year-old managing just three appearances due to injury after joining in February. Roofe, who had previously impressed at Anderlecht and Rangers, will not be offered a contract extension as the club confirmed eight senior players are leaving. Meanwhile, defender Matt Clarke has signed a new three-year contract after playing a pivotal role in helping Derby avoid relegation from the Championship. Clarke returned to Derby in January on a short-term deal and started 15 of the final 17 matches, contributing significantly to the club's late-season resurgence. His performances, including a goal in a key victory over Coventry, have solidified his place in manager John Eustace's plans as Derby prepares for the new season. Clarke becomes the second player to have his future secured after Kane Wilson's contract option was triggered by the club.