sport™: Chelsea Midfielder,IrelandTeam Player

Thursday, April 21, 2011

Chelsea Midfielder,IrelandTeam Player

Early career

Clifford began his career with Crumlin United, playing in the Dublin District Schoolboy's League in the Republic of Ireland.

Chelsea

He moved to England in 2007 to sign for Chelsea as a member of their Academy. He signed a full-time scholarship in June 2008.He made 25 appearances for the youth team during the 2009–10 season, scoring three goals. After progressing into the reserve team, where he scored twice in ten appearances, Clifford captained the youth team as they won the FA Youth Cup. He scored the decisive goal in the final as they were crowned champions for the first time since 1961.Clifford joined Plymouth Argyle on an initial one-month loan in October 2010.He made his senior debut the next day in a 2–1 win against Huddersfield Town. "I'm still learning the game, and it's all good experience for me playing in front of big crowds and with these lads," he said. "I just want to keep myself in the team and keep playing well for Plymouth."
His loan was extended in November, and he continued to play regularly before returning to Chelsea in December.Both clubs had agreed to another extension, but the Football League declined his registration due to Argyle's financial difficulties."What will be will be, but it's a blow," said Peter Reid. "I've got to say that. He's been a breath of fresh air. He's enthusiastic, presses the ball, and has been our leader for such a young man while Fletcher has been out injured; a tremendous character." On 11 February 2011 Clifford signed on a one-month loan for League One Notts County. He returned to Chelsea on 7 April 2011, having made nine appearances for County.
Conor Paul Clifford (born 1 October 1991) is an Irish professional footballer who plays as a midfielder for Chelsea. He is a Irish youth international and has represented them at under-17, under-19, and under-21 level.