Courtney Clarke backed to succeed at Walsall by former boss

Clarke became the Saddlers' first signing of the summer transfer window when he penned a two-year deal with the option of a further year on Monday. 

The 22-year-old worked under Murray at the National League South outfit last term, scoring three goals and setting up four more in 37 appearances. 

Murray, who succeeded Phil Brown as Kidderminster Harriers boss this summer, also managed Walsall right wing-back Connor Barrett during his time at AFC Fylde. 

And the former West Brom assistant coach is intrigued to see the pair battle it out for a place in the team next season. 

"I think Walsall need to start give me a fee, don't they? I'm just developing players for them," Murray joked. 

"Courtney is very similar to Connor in terms of power. He offers all kinds of attributes and he has got a real desire to succeed. I'd probably say Courtney is slightly better technically, although Connor edges it with his pace. 

"I have no doubts that Courtney will be a success. It's going to be a good little battle between Connor and him down that right hand side and I'll be watching from afar."

Clarke established himself as a versatile player across his spells at South Shields and Eastbourne. He was deployed as a central midfielder with the former, but excelled most at right wing-back during his latest spell under Murray. 

"He is better at this stage of his development when he has the full game in front of him," Murray observed.

"The wing-back position suits him best but he can go into midfield. When he does, he offers good energy and a physical presence with his aggression and strength. 

"I think he'd say his preferred position is on the right but he can also play at left wing-back as well. He is technically good and scored a couple of goals cutting inside on his left foot.

"Courtney has a great range of passing and he will get you into the final third a lot. He ended up getting quite a few assists last season and that's an area he can improve on, because I think his numbers will go up as he develops more."

Walsall have built a strong track record of developing players signed from non-league, especially during Mat Sadler's two seasons at the helm. 

Harry Williams, Jamie Jellis and Barrett are the three most notable examples, although Taylor Allen and Liam Gordon also have past experiences in the non-league game.

Murray feels that identity has served Walsall well and will provide Clarke with an good environment to take his game to the next level.

He added: "It's a big club at the level, it's got good support. 

"It's a credit to Walsall in the way that they recruit. They're not scared to go out there and take a risk on players. 

"They do their homework and have an identity of what kind of players they want. When you've got that and you've got that plan, it takes away the risk because you know what you're trying to identify. It's not just off the cuff."