Burnley defender to appear as Countdown contestant (From This Is Lancashire)

Burnley defender to appear as Countdown contestant

6:40pm Monday 8th February 2010 in

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CLARETS defender Clarke Carlisle has become the first Premier League player to appear on Channel 4’s Countdown.

Clarke gained a place in the hotseat after host Jeff Stelling heard about his love of the long-running programme.

The footballer, who was crowned Britain’s Brainiest Footballer on a TV game show in 2002, has already recorded the show.

But fans will have to wait until it is aired later this month to find out how he scored.

Clarke first auditioned for the afternoon quiz show eight years ago when he was at QPR.

He said the prospect of appearing under the studio lights was far more frightening than lining up against a Premier League rival.

He added: “It was fantastic. I know it’s a bit geeky but it’s fulfilled a lifelong ambition for me.

“I am used to playing football and I have a routine for match days that copes with nerves and anxiety.

“But sitting in front of that studio in front of the Countdown clock, Jeff and all the lights I was so nervous.

“I was just really happy to get the first game out of the way and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

“I don’t think I disgraced myself and that’s all I was concerned about.

“I didn’t want to come back here and get ribbed by the squad and embarrass my wife.

“I would love to do it again, perhaps I could be in Dictionary Corner!”

Clarke, who achieved 10 A grades at GCSE, said he was thrilled to meet maths whizz and co-host Rachel Riley.

GMTV presenter Jenni Falconer was the guest in Dictionary Corner on the show.

Contestants on Countdown can remain in the hotseat for up to eight programmes if they carry on winning.

The show will be aired on Wednesday, February 24.