JACK Clarke said it would have been "silly" of him not to take the opportunity to join Ipswich Town after the winger's Sunderland exit was confirmed.

Clarke has signed a five-year deal with the Tractor Boys after Ipswich and Sunderland agreed a deal for the 23-year-old.

The Black Cats will receive £15m up-front with a further £3m guaranteed in the next 12 months.

Sunderland sporting director Kristjaan Speakman says the Black Cats are "disappointed" to lose the former Leeds and Tottenham an but wanted to respect the winger's wish to play in the Premier League and wished Clarke well.

Speakman said: "Jack is an incredibly gifted player, who has played an important role in our progress throughout the last three seasons.

"Understandably, based on his development and performances, he has a desire to play in the Premier League and we respect this position.

"We're disappointed that he’s leaving, but we’re proud of the work we’ve undertaken to help elevate him to this opportunity. Jack is a player rightly held in high regard by his team-mates and the club’s staff and supporters, who I’m sure will all join me in wishing him well for the future.”

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Clarke was a huge success on Wearside, scoring 25 goals and providing 17 assists in 87 league appearances.

After his Ipswich move was confirmed, he said: “I’m really excited to have joined the club and can’t wait to get going.

“Ipswich have been on a really good trajectory over the last few years and the recruitment this summer has been very impressive, so this was always something I was going to be interested in.

“Speaking with Kieran McKenna really sells the club and the journey it’s on, as well as what they’re still trying to achieve, and you’re almost silly if you don’t want to jump on board with the way things have been going.

“I try to be an exciting player and contribute goals and assists so I think the style of football here will suit me, so I just feel excited to meet the lads and get started now.”