Clarke stronger for Savage treatment; FOOTBALL: 'Young lad' is all set to make a name for himself, says Sky Blues boss.

Byline: Andy Turner 

ROBBIE SAVAGE may not know Coventry City's Jordan Clarke by name but his former Wales international team-mate Chris Coleman insists he will soon.

The Sky Blues boss is backing the young defender to bounce back after his controversial red card at Pride Park when the Derby midfielder's melodramatic reaction convinced the referee that Clarke's tackle was a lot worse than it was.

And he believes that the 17-year-old will go from strength to strength and make a name for himself in the game to ensure that the veteran midfielder will know all about him in the future.

"I didn't speak to Robbie afterwards," said Coleman, "but I saw his comments and he sounded condescending when he referred to 'the young lad,' and that's because he didn't know Jordan's name. But he'll know his name in 12 or 18 months, I promise you that."

He added: "Jordan is OK. He's a tough boy and a tough character and I have said all along that these games the boys are getting at the minute, albeit when we are losing, are much better for character-building than if we were flying at the top of the league because they are seeing the other side of it.

"And if they come through it, which they will, they will be stronger for it and when it is going well it should go really well because they have experienced this side as well. "It is hard but the fact they are experiencing it this early in their career will be good for their character."

Meanwhile, Coleman has praised another of the club's academy graduates, midfielder Adam Walker, who is enjoying a productive spell on loan at Nuneaton Town where he has already made a good impression and earned rave reviews.

The 18-year-old has scored two goals in three games, helping Boro to three victories so far.

"Adam has done great and I am not surprised because he's one of those that you want 22 players with the mentality of Adam Walker," said the City manager of the player who has become a set-piece specialist for Nuneaton.

"With the attitude and enthusiasm that the boy has got I am not surprised he has done well at Nuneaton and he is enjoying playing for Kevin Wilkin, I know.

"We have got good connections with the club and I am pleased he is enjoying it."

CAPTION(S):

FLASHPOINT.. Jordan Clarke's tackle on Robbie Savage which led to the City youngster's red card against Derby County and (right) midfielder Adam Walker, who is making waves at Nuneaton Town.