Goalkeeper Cornell signs for Cobblers as Clarke departs for AFC Wimbledon

NEW FACE - David Cornell has signed for the Cobblers on a two-year deal

Welshman Cornell has put pen to paper on a two-year deal with Northampton, and will provide competition between the sticks for Adam Smith.

Clarke has left the Cobblers by mutual consent as he goes in search of regular first team football, having found his way barred by the form of Smith last season.

The former Oxford United man made just four appearances for Town, all in cup competitions, and at 34 years old he has decided to move on and joined the Cobblers’ Sky Bet League One rivals Wimbledon.

Ryan Clarke has left the Cobblers and signed for AFC Wimbledon

Cornell started his career at Swansea City having worked his way through the south Wales club’s Academy.

He made only one senior appearance for the Swans in a League Cup tie against Scunthorpe United, but had loan spells at a number of clubs including Port Talbot, Hereford United, St Mirren and Portsmouth.

Cornell left Swansea and moved to Oldham Athletic in the summer of 2015, and he made 17 appearances for the league one team last season, although he didn’t play from January 2 onwards after losing his place to Joel Coleman, who was on loan from Huddersfield Town. He was released by the Latics at the end of the season.

The 25-year-old is a former Wales under 21 international who has twice been called into the senior squad without making an appearance.

“David is a good signing for us,” said Cobblers boss Rob Page. “He will come in to challenge and compete with Adam Smith and he has knowledge and experience of playing at this level.

“He has a good pedigree and I’m sure he will fit in well in the dressing room.

“I think he was unfortunate to have been released by Oldham but hopefully their loss can be our gain.”

Page also outlined the reasons for allowing Clarke to leave the club.

“This is a move that makes a lot of sense for all parties,” said the Town boss.

“At this stage of his career, Ryan wants and needs to be playing games and we fully respect that.

“Ryan’s chances here were limited last season and so it makes sense to allow him to move on in search of regular first team football.

“I know Ryan is a first class professional and he goes with our thanks and best wishes.”