Darrell Clarke: Promising signs after tactical alterations
On February 15th, 2021, Port Vale appointed Darrell Clarke as their new permanent manager. Having been in a period of uncertainty since John Askey left in January 2021, the 43-year-old’s arrival undoubtedly marks the start of a new era, particularly with David Flitcroft becoming Vale’s latest director of football.
This is an article on tactical analysis from a Port Vale contributor
Now, Clarke has a job on his hands to not only avoid relegation but build towards getting back into League One. Thus far, the early signs are encouraging, so let’s look at what the new manager has changed.
Changing the Shape
Within the modern game, there’s a perception that 4-4-2 is an outdated system that can no longer yield positive results. Of course, football has evolved since the traditional setup was all the rage, but Clarke has stuck to the tried-and-tested approach. As a manager, the 43-year-old has 11 years of experience to his name, which has given him time to refine his system.
According to Transfermarkt, the Valiants predominantly lined-up in an offensive 4-3-3 prior to Clarke’s arrival. Following his appointment, the former Bristol Rovers manager has played with a strike partnership in his opening nine games. Moreover, he’s also opted for a four-man defence and midfield on three occasions. While Clarke may only have picked up one win across those eight matches, Port Vale lost just four games. In their fight for survival, every point counts, especially when taken against fellow bottom-half clubs, such as Leyton Orient, Oldham, and Stevenage.
Becoming Harder to Beat
At the time of writing, Port Vale are 20th in League Two, three points ahead of 22nd-placed Barrow. However, the Bluebirds have three games in hand. Unfortunately, dropping out of the Football League is possible. However, with Clarke at the helm, there’s reason for optimism. Although it took the 48-year-old eight matches to win his first game for the Valiants, he’s undoubtedly made them harder to beat. In his first four defeats, Port Vale only lost by one goal, including against table-topping Cheltenham Town. In that clash. Clarke switched to a 4-3-3, which shows his adaptability. Moreover, he’s also used a five-back system, demonstrating his flexibility and pursuit of on-field unpredictability.
After a much-needed one-goal victory over Newport County at Vale Park, Valiants’ supporters hope that this result is the start of a victory-filled run of matches. If this proves to be the case, fans may opt to use their free bets on Vale’s survival chances. At WhoScored’s list of operators, sign-up and deposit bonus offers from top-rated platforms are valid on League Two markets. At Betfair, for example, users receive a £10 risk-free bet which could go on the division’s fiercely-contested relegation battle.
It’s Time to Find Consistency
In Clarke, Vale have an exciting young manager who’s striving to establish himself at Vale Park. In 2015-16, the 48-year-old secured promotion to League One with Bristol Rovers, and the Valiants faithful will be hoping that he can replicate that achievement over the coming years. While it’s not out of the question, survival has to be the short-term priority, and positive steps are there for all to see.