Jamie Clarke is taking an extended break from GAA action following Armagh's exit from the All-Ireland SFC race.

The Orchard County captain spent a large part of last year travelling and it is believed he will spend the next nine months in Spain. The news is a huge blow to his club Crossmaglen, who open their Armagh SFC defence against Sarsfields on Sunday.

It is also a setback to incoming Armagh manager Kieran McGeeney who will be without Clarke for the start of next year's Allianz League. However, the All-Ireland SFC quarter-finalists will still be expected to win promotion from Division 3 without their attacking talisman. Tweet

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