After securing just one win in their opening eight league games the Saddlers went on to triumph in three of their five league matches in the month of September whilst also securing a welcome draw against Colchester United.
29-year-old Clarke not only helped his side to keep four clean-sheets in five games but also entering into his own Goal of the Month competition with an acrobatic bicycle kick match-winner against Scunthorpe United followed up by his 30-yard thunderbolt against Crawley Town.
Speaking to the press following the news of his award, James, whowas nominated alongside Crewe Alexandra’s Tommy Lowery, Bradford City’s Paudie O’Connor and Exeter City’s Lee Martin, said; "I’m delighted to win the award.
"It’s the first time I’ve won something like this in my career and winning it means a lot.
"To pick up three wins and three clean sheets was a fantastic effort from the team and to add a couple of goals into that as well was the cherry on top of it all."
Sky Sports’ EFL pundit Don Goodman described Clarke's goals as "outstanding" and credited him with earning the club several points throughout the month. Don said; "Most defenders would be happy to score one of Clarke’s September goals in their career, but to score two – and for them to be goals of such importance – is outstanding from the Walsall skipper.
"The 29-year-old only netted his first professional goal last year, but given a license to roam by Darrell Clarke, he’s rewarded his manager with six points already."
Sky Bet EFL trader Ivor Davies added; "James Clarke has never been anything like prolific – even for a centre back – but he scored two spectacular goals in September and was an important presence at the back for a Walsall team who put together a nice run of results, keeping four clean sheets in the process.
"The Saddlers will be looking up and not down now, as they try to work their way into the promotion picture. They are 8/1 to be promoted straight back to League One."