Clare (l) was in the Burton side that lost in the play-offs last season

Mansfield have signed striker Daryl Clare on loan from Rushden & Diamonds until the end of the season, when the move will become permanent.

The 30-year-old is highly experienced at non-league level and has played for Chester, Boston, Crawley and Burton after starting his career at Grimsby.

The Jersey-born forward, who has played for the Republic of Ireland B team, wanted to move nearer to his family.

He has not featured for the Diamonds since November.

Clare scored in his first three games for the Blue Square Premier side, following his summer switch from Burton, but only scored twice in his remaining nine appearances.

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His goal-scoring record is impressive, with 141 goals in 279 league starts, including 48 strikes in 53 league starts for Chester between 2002 and 2004.

Rushden secretary Matt Wild told the club's website: "We wish Daryl all the very best at Mansfield, where he will now be closer to his family.

"He is an extremely talented player and will no doubt do well during his time at Field Mill."

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