COUNTY boss Chris Turner's summer rebuilding programme has begun in earnest with the signing of former favourite Rob Clare.

The 22-year-old, who left Edgeley Park for Blackpool last July, has agreed a deal with the Hatters and is due to put pen to paper, subject to a satisfactory medical, today [Wed].

Clare joined County as a 15-year-old when his classy displays for the youth and then reserve team propelled him into first team contention.

He made his senior debut in the First Division clash against Fulham in August 2000, and alongside Mike Flynn and Leo Roget he played a key role in County's successful bid to avoid relegation from Division One in 2000-01 following the memorable 3-0 victory at Queens Park Rangers in April.

Before leaving for Blackpool, Clare made 128 senior appearances in County blue, scoring four goals.

Turner told County's website: 'We've monitored Rob's performances at Blackpool and we've also had the benefit of looking at him close at hand when he trained with us for a couple of weeks recently.

'I know he's got a great reputation with the fans and I'm delighted that he's returned to County.

'Rob's a very versatile player able to play at centre-back, sweeper or full-back, and as next season's squad will be smaller numerically, his versatility will be very important.

'Although he's still a young player he's also got a vast amount of experience having played a lot of his football in Division One, or the Championship as it is known today, and let's not forget that he has also captained England Under-20s.'

Turner added: 'On top of all that I do know Mansfield boss Carlton Palmer was desperate to sign Rob as well, so it's great news that he has plumped for a return to County.'

Meanwhile, Turner has denied any potential move for former Oldham Athletic skipper Dean Holden, but did acknowledge a past interest in former Latics front-man Jermaine Johnson.

Turner enquired about Johnson when Brian Talbot was still in charge at Boundary Park.

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