CIARAN CLARK has left Newcastle United to join Sheffield United on a season-long loan.

The centre-half has moved to Bramall Lane for the whole of next season, which effectively means his Newcastle career is over as he is due to become a free agent next summer.

Clark was brought to St. James' Park by Rafa Benítez in the summer of 2016 following Newcastle's relegation from the top-flight, with the defender having spent his entire career up until that point with Aston Villa.

The Republic of Ireland international played a huge part as United bounced back at the first attempt, with Clark named the club's Player of the Season as Benítez's side won the Championship title.

The 32-year-old leaves Newcastle having made 129 appearances for the club in all competitions, scoring 11 goals.

Speaking to his club's official website, Sheffield United boss Paul Heckingbottom said: "Ciaran brings with him a lot of experience and with that relevant experience, he has played in this division and has won promotion from this division.

"He wanted to go out on loan and, luckily for us, he chose us ahead of other clubs that were in for him.

"Ciaran is well respected in the dressing rooms he has been in, that's the feedback we've had, I'm sure he will settle in well.

"We'll put big demands on him with regards to the way we train and what we want from him, but I'm sure he is looking forward to it.

"We have now got good strength, experience and qualities in defensive areas, we are covered in all positions across the back line and that's important because it is going to be a tough season, particularly with the schedule at the start of the campaign."