Charlton new boy Billy Clarke admits he was no longer wanted at Bradford.

Clarke, 29, became Addicks boss Karl Robinson’s first summer signing after joining for an undisclosed fee on Thursday.

The former Republic of Ireland Under-21 forward had one year left on his Bantams contract, and was surprised not to hear anything from Bradford chiefs about his move to the Valley.

Clarke, who signed a two-year deal with Charlton, said: “I didn't need any persuading to join.

“When my agent said a bid had been accepted - that was all I needed to hear from the Bradford side of things.

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Clarke featured in the League One play-off final against Millwall

“I was, kind of, no longer wanted there. The move was a no-brainer from then on. I’m absolutely over the moon to be here.

“It was disappointing not to hear a word from anyone at Bradford. Possibly, they were waiting until it was official, but it’s football. They wanted to go down a different road.

“I still have a place in my heart for Bradford and to wish them anything other than success would be poor of me. Charlton will be my focus now.”

Clarke has a wealth of Championship and League One experience after spells with Ipswich, Blackpool and Bradford.

He was an ever-present in Stuart McCall’s Bradford side that reached the League One play-off final last season, scoring seven goals.

Clarke’s best position is just in behind the striker, but he can also play as a number nine.

MORE: Clarke leaves Bradford to join Charlton

He added: “I’ll bring a lot of creativity to the team. I’m quite intelligent in getting into pockets of space and technically good.

“I like to get on the ball and create things and be involved in a passing side. I know clearly from playing against Karl Robinson’s teams, that’s exactly the route he wants to go down.

“I’m turning 30 in December but I feel as good as ever. I hope we do it this season.

“The club deserves to be in the Championship and it’s what I’ve worked hard for over the last few years.”

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