Blues’ Clark returns to Huddersfield to sign out-of-contract striker Novak

Lee Novak has left Huddersfield for Birmingham.

Former Huddersfield Town manager Lee Clark returned to his former club yesterday to sign striker Lee Novak for Birmingham City.

The Blues have given the 24-year-old, first signed by Clark from non-league Gateshead in February 2009, a three-year deal and he will complete his move to St Andrew’s on July 1, when his Huddersfield deal expires.

“Coming to Birmingham City is another progression in his career,” said Clark, of a striker who netted 42 goals in 172 appearances for Town.

“I gave Lee his opportunity in the Football League. For three years he was absolutely magnificent for me as the second striker, playing just off Jordan Rhodes.

“He’s strong, he gets goals and I think he’ll fit in really well with the new group we’re putting together.

“The Blues crowd will take to him because they’ll see the work ethic of the player. They’ll see everything that he gives. He’ll quickly establish himself as a popular player.”

Republic of Ireland captain Robbie Keane has been ruled out of next week’s friendlies against England and Georgia because of club commitments.

Both matches fall outside the Fifa international window and Keane is required for club duty with LA Galaxy.

Another former Leeds United player, Norwich City winger Anthony Pilkington is out of all the Republic’s upcoming games because of a knee injury.

Hartlepool United have released veteran Ritchie Humphreys after 12 years at Victoria Park.

The 35-year-old joined Pools from Cambridge in July 2001 and went on to make 544 appearances, becoming the club’s record appearance maker.

Burnley have released long-serving midfielder Chris McCann, but have offered new deals to striker Martin Paterson and defender Michael Duff.

McCann, 25, played 269 times for the club, scoring 31 goals.