The striker has built on his recovery from a cartilage operation by working throughout the summer.

"Leon feels better than he has done for years, and we are really pleased with him," manager Laws told The Star.

"He's worked during the summer - and lost some weight - and he looks in great nick.

Clarke was in the early stages of a comeback after his knee injury when he made an impact as a sub and earned fans' affections in the last two games of last season, going on as sub and scoring in wins against Leicester and Nor-wich.

Clearly Laws is impressed with the striker's attitude and his determination to meet the challenge of a new season.

Clarke will know that he will have to hit peak form and fitness if he force his way in Laws' plans.

There also must remain the possibility of a move if another club were to come in for him.

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So it is in the forward's interests to make an impression now whether his future lies at Hillsborough or elsewhere.

The Owls have not put him up for sale but if Akpo Sodje, Marcus Tudgay, Deon Burton and Francis Jeffers are all fit they could all be ahead of him in the competition for places.

If another club came in for Clarke it could be hard for the Owls to resist. They would look to recoup the bulk of the £250,000 they paid to Wolves.

Southend did not rule out possible interest in the striker earlier in the summer.

But Wednesday matters will currently be first and foremost for him and the club as the squad get into full swing in pre-season training.

n Meanwhile, The Owls community staff are running courses for youngsters during the school holidays, at Middlewood and Tides-well.

There are six separate events at the training ground during July and August, and three at Tideswell leisure complex, Derbyshire, over a similar period. They are open to boys and girls between the ages of five and 14, and last from 10am to 4pm.

Phone 0114 221 2215.


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