Manager Darrell Clarke returns to Vale Park
Port Vale FC said it was “delighted” to welcome manager Darrell Clarke back to the club.
Clarke has been on bereavement leave with assistant Andy Crosby taking interim charge.
The club confirmed that “The Gaffer is back as part of a phased return and will be supporting Interim Manager Andy Crosby and his team for the remainder of the season before taking charge again in the summer.”
I’m humbled and so thankful for the outpouring of concern, love and kindness. This support has been invaluable, continues to give me strength, and is something that I will never forget. I genuinely feel part of a very special family and community here at Port Vale and I am delighted to be back…
Port Vale manager Darrell Clarke
Clarke told the official website: “From the bottom of my heart I would like to thank the owners of the football club, my team, club staff and all Port Vale supporters – as well as everyone from the wider football industry and community, including all the clubs I have been at and the League Managers’ Association (LMA) – for the incredible support shown to me and my family during what remains an unimaginably difficult time.
“I’m humbled and so thankful for the outpouring of concern, love and kindness. This support has been invaluable, continues to give me strength, and is something that I will never forget. I genuinely feel part of a very special family and community here at Port Vale and I am delighted to be back.”
Port Vale FC have asked that the privacy of Darrell and his family continues to be respected at this time.
“Thinking of you gaffer” – defender Nathan Smith was one of many Vale players to wear a t-shirt in support of Clarke during recent games
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