Where are they now?

'Rob who?', I hear you cry! Well, for those of you who have forgotten let me remind you of Rob Clare's career.

Clare started out as a trainee at Stockport County where he made his professional debut against Fulham as a 17 year old in 2000. At this point County were plying their trade in Division One (now The Championship). Clare established himself in County's back four and following some fine individual performances Rob was called up to captain the England Under 20 side.

After notching up over a century of outings for Stockport, then Pool boss Colin Hendry spotted the youngster's talent and took him to Bloomfield Road for an undisclosed fee.

Rob played at centre back and right back for Pool in Hendry's first season in charge. Ultimately as the team struggled, Clare didn't quite live up to the high expectation levels of the fans and management.

However, Clare did put in a number of impressive displays but perhaps lacked a consistency to his play. This was probably more down to the side's general poor performances and results.

After 19 league starts in his first season at Bloomfield Road, Clare switched back to Stockport. Since his move back to Edgeley Park, Rob has surpassed 200 apperances for County.

Now in League 2, Stockport are reaping the benefits of Clare's undoubted talent. Clare is still only 24 years of age and should have many more years of football in him, perhaps at a much higher level. Pool fans can get another look at Clare on Monday night in County's FA Cup replay against Staines, live on Sky Sports.

You can't help but feel that if Clare had joined a successful Simon Grayson managed Seasiders', he might have made more of an impression on the Pool faithful.

Best of luck in the rest of your career Rob!

Click here to join in the debate on the club forum.

Join the Vital Fantasy Football League - its Free!