'Jigsaw' as he was affectionally known (given his ability to fall apart in the box) was a true local hero.

Born in Wallsend he would be primarily remembered for his first spell at the club. Having come through the academy he would be promoted with a revitalised Newcastle United to the Premier League in 1993 under Kevin Keegan and would be part of the squad that finished runners up in both the 95/96 and 96/97 seasons.

Despite a move to rivals Sunderland his love for Newcastle United was never in question, evidenced as he attended an FA Cup Final to support the Magpies in a t-shirt with a derogatory slogan about his employer to boot.

Clarky would appear for England U21's eleven times but would never get a full cap. He would also play for Fulham in his 18 year playing career before entering management for a host of clubs in England, Scotland and KSA.