Blackpool defender Olly Casey states new head coach Steve Bruce has offered clarity during his first few weeks in charge at Bloomfield Road.

Heading into this afternoon’s clash with Charlton Athletic at the Valley, the centre back is the only player to start in the ex-Newcastle United and West Brom boss’ first two games in charge, which came against Exeter City in League One and Sheffield Wednesday in the EFL Cup.

During his playing days, Bruce enjoyed multiple successes with Manchester United, with his honours at the heart of Alex Ferguson’s defence including three Premier League titles and three FA Cups.

“I know what he did as a player, and as a centre back I’ve got so much to learn from him,” Casey said.

“He’s told us exactly what he expects from us and how he expects us to defend, and what he wants us to do on the ball, so everyone is very clear on what to do. I’m waiting for him to bring out some of his best clips.

“It’s been really good so far, the gaffer has given us a real clear way that he wants to play and all of the lads have bought into it. He’s had a chat with all of us, and as a group we’ve taken to the new tactics.

“It’s different but it’s a lot clearer playing in a back four, it just brings more clarity to what you’re doing.

“There’s no excuses, everyone knows what the patterns of play are before we go out.”

During the 1990/91 season, Bruce bagged 19 goals in all competitions for Manchester United, with some of his Blackpool defenders starting the current campaign in similar scoring form.

James Husband’s stoppage time winner in the 2-1 victory over Exeter was his third of the season, after a brace against Cambridge United last month, while Matthew Pennington also bagged two away to Burton Albion in the first round of the EFL Cup.

“Hubby has said he’s trebled his best season so far, so I need to chip in a few as well,” Casey added jokingly.

“I’ve got to be next, it’s due.”