By Andy Simpson
FA VASE PREVIEW

BACKGROUND: Vics players celebrate and inset, Michael Clarke (left) challenges for the ball while at Stockport
PICTURE: PA Images

MICHAEL Clarke joined Northwich Victoria laden with expectation on young shoulders.
It was 2011, and their goal-shy attack needed a forward to put that right. When he departed five years later, a stay punctuated by an unhappy spell at Rushall, his transition to an imposing and reliable defender impressed suitors Stockport County.
“I’d never have played in the National League if I carried on up front!” he qui...