Armagh set to be without Jamie Clarke for 2013 campaign

Jamie Clarke

Armagh are set to be without the influential Jamie Clarke for the 2013 season as the corner forward intends to go travelling next year.

The news will come as a major blow to Orchard county manager Paul Grimley, who has confirmed Clarke's absence.

The Crossmaglen player has indicated that he will not comment on the issue publicly until his club's interest in the Ulster and All-Ireland series ends.

Grimley has already announced a number of changes to his squad for next year.

New Armagh football boss Grimley has dropped 14 players in a clear-out of the 2012 championship panel.

The players to make way include 2003 All-Ireland finalist Andy Mallon, Malachy Mackin, Micheal O'Rourke, Billy Joe Padden and Anto Duffy.

Grimley has brought in 12 new players, including Crossmaglen Rangers pair Paul McKeown and Stephen Finnegan.

Grimley took charge in July after Armagh's surprise qualifier defeat by Roscommon.