Throughout his EFL career, the 35-year-old represented a variety of Yorkshire clubs and is a well-traveled professional.
Clayton wore the colors of Bradford City and Doncaster Rovers in addition to playing for Leeds, Huddersfield, and Middlesbrough.
After moving to Rochdale last year, he fell into the non-league pyramid before enjoying a stint with Liversedge, a team in Yorkshire. He has joined seventh-tier Matlock in a dual position following a brief stay with the club.
Clayton and Matlock assistant Jonathan Rimmington, whom he worked under at eighth-tier Liversedge, have reconnected as a result of the move.
“With more than 500 appearances throughout the English pyramid, Adam’s addition will bring leadership and experience to a relatively young Gladiators midfield,” Matlock stated in a statement.
Despite being developed in Manchester City’s youth system, Clayton was unable to establish himself in the first squad despite the arrival of well-known players. Before leaving for Huddersfield, he made 50 appearances for Leeds after finding senior opportunities there.
Clayton was a mainstay at the Riverside for six years after being signed by Middlesbrough after two years as a Terrier.
His time at Middlesbrough ended in 2020, and he went on to play semi-professionally after periods at Bradford, Doncaster, and Birmingham City.