Martin Clarke yet to commit future to Down after AFL return

Martin Clarke has yet to decide on his future with Down after opting to quit the Australian Football League and return home to Ireland.

The 2010 All Star has spent six seasons with AFL giants Collingwood in two spells, having also played football for the Mourne county in 2010 and 2011.

The 2005 All-Ireland minor winner will not make up his mind whether to commit to Down until later in the year.

A new manager will be in place in 2015 following James McCartan's departure.

Clarke made a big impact when he last quit Aussies Rules football for gaelic football, playing a key role in Down reaching the All-Ireland final in 2010.

He played 46 games in three years at Collingwood before quitting at the end of the 2009 season, spending two years with Down before resuming his AFL career with the Magpies in 2012.

Injuries and a failure to secure a first team place this season have contributed to his decision to return home after completing a second three-year contract.

There is speculation he will play Sigerson Cup football for Jordanstown next year as he is keen to begin a degree in teaching.