 He then played in Scotland for Broughty Athletic, Arbroath and Montrose.Born in Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, Clarke was brought up into the first team at Mansfield Town in the 2001–02 season, after being promoted from the club's youth system.He made his debut on 1 April 2002, in a 5–3 defeat against Luton Town, and scored his first goal against Blackpool in April 2003.