Published Monday, 10 October 2011
Collingwood confirmed on Monday morning that Clarke had been drafted back to the Melbourne club following an agreement with fellow AFL side Greater Western Sydney.
Collingwood exchanged their first-round draft pick with GWS in order to secure the 23-year-old's services.
It is understood Clarke, who is a member of the An Riocht GAA club in south Down, has signed a new three-year deal.
Clarke had previously spent three years with Collingwood between 2006 and 2009 after signing as an international rookie.
He was elevated to the senior squad in 2007, playing 46 times for the Magpies at midfield and across the half-back line.
Clarke returned to his native Kilkeel in 2009, and played a key part in Down's run to the 2010 All-Ireland final, winning an All-Star award for his efforts.
Clarke is set to join fellow Down star Caolan Mooney at Collingwood, after the 18-year-old joined the club on a rookie deal over the summer.