Rudge ‘laughs off’ Vale return
Legendary manager John Rudge has reportedly laughed off any possibility of a return to Vale Park despite being seen in conversation with owner Norman Smurthwaite, the Sentinel claims.
I will have to see if there is anybody out there who thinks my experience could be of any help to them…
Rudge, in charge of Vale for 16 years, and responsible for a string of cup giantkillings and promotions, says he “will have to see if there is anybody out there who thinks my experience could be of any help to them.”
Earlier this month, Vale owner Norman Smurthwaite appeared to rule out any move for Rudge, the Vale owner told a fans forum that he would not want to destabilise manager Micky Adams with such an appointment.
If the club were to make any move for Rudge, it seems likely it would need the manager’s blessing. According to the Sentinel, Rudge and Smurthwaite were spotted in “earnest conversation” which has led to some speculation that Vale could find a role for their legendary former manager.
And Rudge himself has ruled out retirement saying: “I don’t see myself stopping at home. My contract at Stoke was ending, it wasn’t a case of me stopping because I was retiring.”