Lincoln City have officially announced the signing of veteran midfielder Sam Clucas, marking an emotional return for the Lincoln-born player.
The 34-year-old joins the Imps on a deal running until the end of the 2024/25 season, with an option for an additional year.
A Career of Prestige and Experience
Clucas brings a wealth of experience to the LNER Stadium, having played more than 500 competitive matches during a career that spans two decades. With stints in the Premier League for Hull City and Swansea City, alongside over 100 Championship appearances for Stoke City, his pedigree is undeniable. Throughout his career, clubs have invested over £23 million in transfer fees to secure his services.
The midfielder’s journey comes full circle with his return to the club where it all began. Clucas was part of Lincoln City’s Academy before embarking on a professional career that saw him rise through the divisions and compete at the highest levels of English football. Most recently, he played in the Championship for Rotherham United before a short spell with Oldham Athletic in League Two.
Skubala and George on Clucas’ Impact
Head coach Michael Skubala highlighted the multifaceted value Clucas brings to the squad:
“This is a different type of signing for the club but a clever one in that Sam is ‘coming home’ towards the end of a fantastic career, wanting to contribute on and off the pitch. He will add knowledge, experience and leadership to the group as well as his undoubted quality.”
Director of football Jez George echoed these sentiments, emphasising Clucas’ potential impact both on and off the pitch:
“Sam needs no introduction to our supporters, and we are pleased there is an opportunity for him to end his career where it all started for him, at his first club in his home city. This is a unique situation but isn’t based on sentiment. Sam played more than 30 times in the Championship last season and has come here to contribute.”
A Record-Breaking Return
When Clucas steps onto the pitch for his second debut with the Imps, it will mark a remarkable 5,861 days since his first senior appearance for the club. While not quite surpassing the record set by Shane Nicholson, who had a 7,345-day gap between his first and final games for the Imps, it’s a return steeped in nostalgia and promise.
Writer’s View
Sam Clucas’ return to Lincoln is a heartwarming story that also makes footballing sense. His experience and leadership could be invaluable for a squad aiming to balance youthful exuberance with seasoned know-how. For the fans, it’s a chance to welcome back one of their own, and for Clucas, it’s an opportunity to leave a lasting legacy at the club where his journey began.
