Blackpool boss Ian Holloway has praised the attitude of in-form winger Matt Phillips.

A string of scintillating displays from Phillips since returning from an early-season loan spell with Sheffield United has helped to catapult the Seasiders into promotion contention in the Championship.

The 20-year-old's future was the subject of much speculation in the January transfer window amid a bid from Cardiff and reported interest from Bolton, but Holloway has praised his composure, drawing a contrast with last season's transfer saga surrounding then Seasiders captain and now Liverpool midfielder Charlie Adam.

"He is showing great maturity," said Holloway. "He is delighted to be here and be with us, unlike last year where my captain wanted to leave.

"We have got everything going our way and I believe it is only a matter of time until we get good enough to keep Matt or someone comes in who deserve him.

"He's English, he's 20 and he's improving so that isn't bad."