Charlton ace Billy Clarke is rooming with former Millwall midfielder Liam Trotter.

The pair have been best pals since coming through Ipswich’s academy 15 years ago.  

Clarke left Bradford to join Charlton in the summer, which ended his three-year spell with the Bantams.

And with his family still living up north, he is sharing an apartment with Trotter, who plays for AFC Wimbledon.

Clarke told News Shopper: “I go and see my family in Leeds on my days off. So when I get a day off or play a game up there, I’ll go back home and see the kids and my wife.

“It’s all right. My friend signed for Wimbledon, Liam Trotter and I’m living with him. We share an apartment - it’s pretty good.

News Shopper: Gianfranco Zola was full of praise for Millwall and Liam Trotter in particular. Picture: Action Images

Liam Trotter (left) during his Millwall days 

“I’m not great with my own company – I get bored pretty easily. So to have someone to live with, I enjoy it.

“He was in my youth team in Ipswich. I’ve known Liam for near-on 15 years now. I’ve been best mates with him since.”

When asked whether Trotter’s four-year affiliation with Charlton’s arch rivals crossed his mind, Clarke joked: “Do you want me to fight him in the front row? No, no, no. He’s long gone from there.”

Clarke, 29, has starred for Charlton in the early stages of the season.

MORE: Clarke reveals why he knocked on Manchester United legend's door aged 13

The Irish attacker has given the Addicks some much-needed creativity in midfield, something they have lacked in previous years.

The former Ipswich man is now facing competition for a starting berth with the return of Ben Reeves.

Reeves, who has been struggling for fitness since signing from MK Dons in August, made his first league appearance in the 3-1 win over Fleetwood.

He played under Charlton boss Karl Robinson at the Dons, and is one of the best number 10s in League One.

Clarke added: “I know Ben from playing against him many times when he was at MK Dons. He’s a good player.

News Shopper:

Ben Reeves | Picture: Benjamin Peters Photography

“I’ve seen enough of him in training to confirm what I already thought of him. It would just be good to get him fully fit and get him involved.

“There will be competition for places. But there will also be different players for different games.

“So it’s whether I play or whether Ben plays. Ricky has been playing in the 10 recently. It’s just whatever the manager thinks for each specific game.”