The Seasiders striker had a tough time after signing from Ipswich in the summer.

Despite being Holloway's first acquisition, the 21-year-old struggled to get into the side in the early stages of the season.

A first goal for the club in the Carling Cup tie at Stoke helped his cause and he has since started three Championship games – against Plymouth, Swansea and Scunthorpe.

He is yet to feature on a losing Blackpool side in the league and had his best game yet against Scunthorpe – only denied a goal to cap a fine performance by the woodwork.

And the manager is delighted that Clarke is proving a success.
Holloway said: "He is really settling in now and I think you can see that in the way he's playing.

"He is on the move while he's on the pitch and he is enjoying his football.

"Billy has now realised that he is part of the squad and that he is a respected part of that squad.

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"He might not have scored in the league yet but he will score goals.

"He scored against Stoke, and it is amazing how young strikers need a goal.

"As long as they work hard for the team and look sharp and move, they will score goals.

"In the Carling Cup game at Crewe early in the season he was a bit static.

"But I showed him that and I am delighted with the way he reacted. I'm pleased that he's finding his feet now.

"Billy has worked hard. He has to learn some patience and I think he will score at any level with that wonderful left foot he's got.

"The more he plays, the more he'll score. But he's going to have to earn that right to start on a regular basis."

Clarke came through the ranks at Ipswich and made more than 50 appearances for the Tractor Boys.

He spent loan spells at a host of clubs – Colchester, Falkirk, Darlington, Northampton and Brentford – before being allowed to leave Portman Road on a free in the summer.

But he seemed likely to join a lower league club until Holloway shocked some people by offering him a deal.

But the manager's faith in Clarke, who turns 22 next month, is being justified.

"I have been waiting for the fella to show me how good he is and he's definitely doing that," added Holloway.

"In the early stages there was a lot going on. He felt a bit of pressure when he first came I think, although he had a brilliant pre-season.

"In the first game he played I remember he scored one and made two, and his passing was great.

"But it's always a test at a new club and his partner had a baby as well, which means there were off-the-field matters to deal with – and they take priority.

"But he looks a lot slimmer and he has been working hard, and I am delighted for him that he is doing so well."