2003, he went out on loan again, this time to Port Vale, also of the Second Division, where he made thirteen appearances in another three-month spell. He won praise from manager Brian Horton for his strong work ethic. He spent February 2004 on loan at First Division Coventry City, playing five games. His contract with Everton expired at the end of the 2003–04 season, and he turned down the club's offer of a new contract, though he remained at the club on a month-to-month contract. Blackpool In September 2004 Clarke signed for Blackpool, then managed by Colin Hendry, initially on a one-month loan but with an agreement to make the move permanent, for £150,000. When Clarke arrived at the club, Blackpool were eight points short from safety. Helping to shore up the defence, his impact helped the club to avoid relegation. His contribution was recognized at the end of season award evening, as he picked up the Player of the Year award, as well as three other individual awards. Despite the departure of Hendry, he continued to be a vital part of the club's line-up, playing all 46 league games in the 2005–06 season under new manager Simon Grayson. At the end of that campaign he picked up the Blackpool Gazette and Supporters Websites awards, as well as the Alan Lowis Memorial Trophy. He made a total of 109 appearances for Blackpool, including his loan spell, and was also the club's captain. Southend United In August 2006 Clarke left Blackpool, despite the offer of an improved contract, and signed for Championship newcomers Southend United. He signed a three-year contract for an undisclosed fee, citing his desire to play Championship football. Clarke hoped the club could progress and even reach the top-flight, however Southend were relegated back into League One at the end of his first season after finishing seven points short of safety. He spent the 2007–08 season back in League One, and promotion hopes were ended following a 5–1 defeat to Doncaster Rovers in the play-off semi-finals. In June 2008 Clarke was transfer-listed, along with Nicky Bailey and Simon Francis, after the three failed to agree terms over contract extensions. Chairman Ron Martin blamed Clarke's agent for unsettling him at the club. A move did not materialise, and Clarke continued to play for Southend in the 2008–09 season, and vowed to give his best until his situation could be