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LEE CLARK saw plenty of reasons for optimism after collecting his first Boxing Day win as Huddersfield Town manager.

Jordan Rhodes clinched the 1-0 Galpharm victory over League I basement side Chesterfield with his 20th goal of the season at club level in the 34th minute.

And as well as hailing another sweet finish by the 21-year-old, who back-heeled home from Lee Novak’s cross, Clark praised the displays of Oscar Gobern, Donal McDermott, Alex Bruce and Tom Clarke.

“I believe Oscar is a fantastic talent,” said the boss, who was without versatile full-back Calum Woods because of an ankle ligament injury which could sideline him for three weeks.

“Oscar has done well in both his games since coming back from a lengthy injury lay-off, and when he is involved week in, week out, you will see a Premier League player in the making.”

Lively winger McDermott was handed a first start in 15 league games and Clark commented: “He has had to be patient and he did lots of good things.

“There are things he has to work on, and we have to nurture him, but he has unbelievable ability, which we see every week in training.”

Centre-back Bruce, this time partnered by Antony Kay rather than the suspended Peter Clarke, played his third game since arriving on loan from Leeds.

“The composure and experience of Alex shone through,” added Clark.

“He showed good positional sense and he was good on the ball.”

Clarke, back after a loan spell at League I rivals Leyton Orient, made his first Town appearance since February as a late replacement for left-back Gary Naysmith.

“I monitored Tom closely during his time at Orient and he was one of their better players,” said the manager.

“He showed the confidence he has developed from playing regular games and I was pleased with his contribution.

“He produced an excellent slide tackle to deny them.

“It shows that when players go out on loan, it isn’t always then end for them here.

“I’m up front with them, and if it’s because I want them to get games, I tell them.”

The next Huddersfield Town webchat will be held on Tuesday, January 3 from 12.30pm to 1.30pm.