Ipswich Town right-back Harry Clarke insists he will never take for granted the 'dream come true' feeling of representing his hometown club.

The 22-year-old was born in Ipswich and came through the club's youth ranks before departing for Arsenal at the age of 14.

He returned to his boyhood club in a £1.5m deal back in January though and was left in tears, alongside his family, after helping the team secure League One promotion. 

Scoring his first goal at Portman Road, in a 4-3 win against Blackburn, was another emotional moment for the marauding full-back, who never underestimates what it means to wear the Ipswich badge.

East Anglian Daily Times: Ipswich Town defender Harry Clarke says he will never take for granted representing his hometown club. Ipswich Town defender Harry Clarke says he will never take for granted representing his hometown club. (Image: Pagepix Ltd)

“Every time I pull the shirt on is like a dream come true for me as a local boy," he said.

“I still get a buzz from seeing the shirt hanging up in the dressing room with my name on it. It's the same when I see a young fan wearing a shirt with my name on it. I used to be that kid, so to have people supporting me, shouting for me and the team, is very special. 

“I was online yesterday with one of my mates and one of his work colleagues has a son aged 10. I played a game online with him and my mate texted me this morning to say 'he can't wait to go to school to tell all his pals'.

"It’s a weird feeling in a way but it’s also the very best feeling."

East Anglian Daily Times: Harry Clarke produces his traditional post-win fist-pump after a 3-2 home victory against Swansea.Harry Clarke produces his traditional post-win fist-pump after a 3-2 home victory against Swansea. (Image: Steve Waller)

Clarke, who has taken on former captain Luke Chambers' post-win fist-pump celebrations in front of the fans, continued: "I want to be known for what I do on the pitch, not just the fist pump, but it is special to have that sort of rapport with the fans. They’re always first to initiate it and it’s a nice connection.

“I used to come here with my dad when the stadium was only half full, so to see the stadium rocking and the buzz around the town is a special feeling.

”I always wanted to play for Ipswich, my club, and to be doing it in the current era makes me very proud. I try very hard to always appreciate the position I am in."