Leon Clarke got off to a flying start at Scunthorpe, scoring the goal gave the Iron the lead against Sheffield United at Glanford Park on Saturday.

Unfortunately for Clarke, the nine man Blades hit back to draw 1-1.

Clarke has had a frustrating time at The Valley and has yet to score for the Addicks since signing for the club from Swindon in January.

The move saw Paul Benson move in the other direction. Benson went on to play a significant part in Swindon’s promotion, scoring 11 goals in 22 appearances for Di Canio’s team.

Benson did not figure in Chris Powell’s plans and a proposed move to Notts County fell through in August when the player could not agree personal terms with the Magpies.

Clarke told BBC Radio Humberside how he views his current situation:

“I don’t think I have a future there (Charlton).
The manager said when I went there, that if I got in and played well, then the shirt was mine to keep but I don’t think I’ve had the opportunity.

“I got a call from the manager on Thursday saying Scunthorpe were interested and I jumped at the chance.

“At any new club you want to hit the ground running and it breathed some confidence into me, which was nice.

“My match fitness isn’t as high as I’d like it to be because I haven’t played this season but hopefully I can train well and get in the team soon,” said Clarke.

Like Benson, Clarke no longer figures in Powell’s plans and has been told he can leave the club. Both club and player will hope that Clarke’s time at Glanford Park will be successful and lead to a permanent deal.