Josh Clarke joins Doncaster Rovers on loan with permanent option

Tuesday 7th July, 2026 at 11:59am

Josh Clarke has joined EFL League One side Doncaster Rovers on a season-long loan deal with the option to make the move permanent in January, subject to international clearance.

Signed from Celtic last summer, Clarke made his Jags debut against Greenock Morton in a 1-1 draw before keeping his first clean sheet the following week against Ayr United in the Premier Sports Cup.

He would go on to make a total of 42 appearances across all competitions, keeping 14 clean sheets and earning seven Player of the Month nominations along the way.

The goalkeeper’s club form earned him international recognition as he went away with the Northern Irish Under 21s last September before earning a pair of senior call-ups in March and June this year.

Thistle Sporting Director Ian Baraclough said:

“To secure Josh’s services for the back end of last season and agree a permanent deal for this summer we had to include a clause that would allow him to move on in a club of a certain level such as Doncaster were to make a move.

“The club will receive an undisclosed fee as part of the deal and Josh leaves with the thanks of everyone at the club for his efforts last season – we wish him all the best for the upcoming season.”

Jags Head Coach Mark Wilson added:

“Obviously it’s a real shame to lose Josh but that’s football. When a team performs well, there’s going to be attention drawn to certain players and it’s a really good opportunity for him.

“Josh was excellent for us last season with some of the saves he made as well as the way he used the ball when it was at his feet. He’s got the ability to go a long way and we wish him the best of luck for the future.”