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Departing double-promotion defender Harry Clarke has shared a heartfelt message for the Ipswich Town supporters following his move to Preston North End. The 25-year-old ended his three-and-a-half-year spell at his hometown club yesterday, bringing to a close a period that saw him become part of that now-iconic Band of Brothers squad which climbed from League One all the way to the Premier League. Born and raised in Ipswich and the club’s academy, before departing for Arsenal and then returned to the club in 2023 and quickly becoming a popular figure. His energetic personality and connection to the fanbase made him one of the most relatable players during the modern resurgence of Ipswich Town. A Message From the Heart Writing on social media last night, Clarke posted a very emotional farewell that underlined how much representing his hometown club meant to him. “There are some goodbyes that are almost impossible to put into words, this is one of them goodbyes. This club has always been more than just football to me. It’s my homegrown club… the place I call home.” He also spoke about living out his childhood dream, pulling on the shirt he grew up visualising and sharing a journey with supporters that will “stay with me for the rest of my life”. He also reflected on those historic back-to-back promotions, describing the squad as “history makers”, and he recalled the moment that he walked out in the Premier League wearing the shirt in front of his family, saying that memory “nothing will ever take away”. Thanks to Staff, Teammates and Supporters He paid tribute to the manager, all the coaching staff, former and present teammates and everyone behind the scenes before turning his attention to the supporter which he said he formed an “instant connection” “Representing you has meant more to me than I could ever properly explain… I have lived every little Tractor Boys dream.” He ended that statement by saying he may be leaving as a player but will “always be one of you” A Tractor Boy Forever He departs with the gratitude of the whole club and supporters, having played a meaningful role in one of the most memorable periods in Ipswich’s modern history. His journey from Academy kid to Premier League right-back ensures he leaves as more than just a player but as a Tractor Boy who lived his dream.