McCartan ready for Clarke exit

DOWN football boss James McCartan has admitted it’s likely Aussie Rules side Collingwood will try to lure Marty Clarke back to Australia.

Former All-Ireland minor winner Clarke returned from a three-year spell with the AFL side late last year and has had a massive influence on the Down team since.

His form in the half-forward line and the manner in which he has dovetailed with brother and fellow forward, John, has earned promotion for Down and a place in Sunday’s Division 2 final.