Though Clodius might have had his own agenda, it remains true that at least in 59 a.c. Cicero was not very high in the triumvirs' opinion.
He had attacked them during Ibrida's trial and only a few hours later Caesar arranged for Clodius' adoption. And within the first part of his tribunate he managed to "dispose" of both Cicero and Cato, which was a very good solution for the triumvirs in order to safeguard Caesar's doing as consul.
In as much the triumvirs found in Clodius a useful "tool" while a tribune, for sure Clodius recognized the opportunities that the political situation created by the triumvirs gave him to reach power.
I wonder who was really using who in this case.