Port Vale’s former Academy Head guides Leek Town to promotion

Josh Brehaut, who was formerly Port Vale’s Academy Head, has guided non-league side Leek Town to their highest position in sixteen years.

Brehaut had two years with Stoke City’s junior sides before a two year spell with Port Vale between 2021 and 2023. He took over from Neil Baker as Leek Town manager in the summer and has guided the club to promotion from the Northern Premier League West to Step 3 level. It means the club will return to Step 3 for the first time in sixteen years and is also the club’s first promotion since 1997.

Brehaut oversaw a twenty three game unbeaten run and the club have also reached the final of the Staffordshire Cup.

Leek ironically confirmed promotion against former manager Baker’s Newcastle Town side on Easter Monday. One of the scorers in the 2-1 win was former Port Vale player Dan Trickett-Smith.

Brehaut told Moorlands Radio Sport:  “I’m delighted we’ve managed to produce a moment today for everyone associated with the club. I really want to thank the board of directors who gave me this opportunity.

“We can move onwards and upwards and get ready for some big journeys next year. We’re really excited to attack what the future brings.”